Microsoft launches student hackathon, targets solutions for the health sector

Microsoft launches student hackathon, targets solutions for the health sector

University students from across Kenya and some parts of Africa can now apply to participate in season 4 of the Microsoft Africa Development Centre’s (ADC) Game of Learners (GOL) student hackathon competition. The GOL initiative provides an opportunity for African university students, aspiring software engineers, and solution builders to improve their technical and coding abilities while creating solutions to current challenges facing the continent and the world.

GoL student hackathon Season 4

In this year’s student hackathon competition, participants will be working to develop possible technology solutions that can address different health challenges, including how to improve healthcare service provision in their localities or other parts of the world. The program runs as a 5-week hackathon with teams captained by Microsoft Learn Student Ambassadors crafting the innovations while receiving technical training from Microsoft’s professionals.

student hackathon gol microsoft

Since we launched Game of Learners four years ago, we have seen incredible development in the learner’ skills through each season as they create incredibly clever solutions to some of Africa’s pressing problems using Microsoft technology,” said Ruth Ferland, Senior Program Manager at ADC, and the founder of the Game of Learners Program. “This year’s theme will allow the participants to plug into an area that has enormous potential to impact lives across the continent and indeed around the world.”

The students will benefit from the instruction of 32 coaches and more than 20 advisors who will guide them through the process of learning new technologies and building their solutions. The coaches, mentors, judges, speakers, and trainers will consist of volunteers from Microsoft and partners, who for season 4 will include PSI and AMREF Health Africa.

Winning teams

At the end of the season, the winning team will be eligible for awards, including collaboration with GOL Season 4 partners to advance their solution and entry into the Microsoft Imagine Cup, where they will present their innovation on a global stage.

student hackathon Game of Learners hackathon logo

This partnership with Microsoft is part of a larger initiative to increase the talent pool of individuals working in Digital Health across Africa”, said Martin Dale, Population Services International’s (PSI) Global Director of Digital Health. “There is so much talent graduating from our universities and Game of Learners is a great opportunity for students to dig in and create solutions that make health care more accessible to all.”, he continued.

Speaking about the initiative, Samuel Weru, AMREF Health Africa Group ICT Director, challenged students to apply for the program and be part of the drive towards creating home-grown solutions for Africa’s challenges.

As a continent that has historically had serious healthcare challenges, we need the kind of ideas that can only come from the youth to revitalize healthcare service provision. There are myriad opportunities ranging from health informatics and telemedicine to big data analysis and system security for the learners to explore. We are eager to work with the teams to create solutions that have the potential to change Africa and the world,” said Weru.

GoL Season 4

In total, Season 4 will have 16 teams, each made up of 4 learners, 2 men and 2 women, drawn from all over the continent. The virtual student hackathon competition is open to students of accredited universities and colleges in sub-Saharan Africa, who will be vetted as per the requirements after submitting an online application.

The program is designed to provide a fun, hands-on learning experience while creating a virtual environment that transcends borders to allow young minds to collaborate and drive the advancement of Africa into a global innovation hub. Having gender-balanced teams further ties into our mission of promoting diversity and inclusion within the tech industry,” explains Ferland.

Like a sports league, each 5-week season of Game of Learners follows up with a month-long season of GOL Clinic and GOL exhibitions to accord individuals seeking deeper hands-on technical experience and specialized training from Microsoft and GOL partners.

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Check out other Microsoft stories making the news across Africa and the Middle East region.

What are the average React developer salary perspectives in 2023?

What are the average React developer salary perspectives in 2023?

React is a popular JavaScript library for creating user interfaces; in fact, it has become one of the most widely used frameworks for web development. The demand for React developers is increasing, and so have React JS developer salary expectations.

In this article, we will explore the average React developer salary and the factors that can affect that number, such as industry and country.

React JS Developer Salary By Industry

React JS salary expectations can vary dramatically per industry. Some popular industries include: 

  • Software Development: The software development industry is one of the largest employers of React developers, and salaries in this industry can vary widely depending on the company, location, and job role. The average React engineer salary for someone working in software development is around $80,000 and $140,000 per year, with senior developers earning even higher salaries.
  • E-commerce: React developers working in the e-commerce industry can expect to earn similar salaries to those working in software development, with an average React salary range of $80,000 to $140,000 per year. 
  • Financial Services: React developers working in the financial services industry can expect to earn slightly higher salaries compared to those in software development and e-commerce. The average React programmer’s salary is around $90,000 to $150,000 per year.
  • Healthcare: React developers working in the healthcare industry can expect to earn similar salaries to those in software development and e-commerce, with an average salary range of $75,000 to $130,000 per year. 

It’s critical to note that you need to consider the education, location, and experience of a developer before determining what the rate should be.

a react js code sample from codecademy salary

The Average React JS Salary by Country

Developer salaries will fluctuate based on their location. The United States is one of the most significant employers of React developers, and salaries in this country can vary widely depending on the state and city. On average, React developers in the United States and in neighboring Canada can expect to earn between $80,000 and $150,000 per year. The exact salary will depend on the city and job role.

React developers in the United Kingdom can expect to earn slightly lower salaries compared to those in the United States and Canada, with an average salary range of $60,000 to $120,000 per year. 

Developers in China, India, and Eastern Europe with the same skills as these developers can earn around $20,000 to $40,000 per year for the same work, mainly due to the local economy and favorable exchange rates. These countries often offer tax benefits to tech employers who want to set up development hubs in their country, which means businesses can afford to pay a little more. 

Factors that Affect React Developer Salary

We’ve already mentioned that there are factors that will affect the average rate your developer should be paid. 

Experience is one of the biggest factors that affect the salary of a React developer. The more experience a developer has, the higher their salary is likely to be because they are able to take on more complex projects and will likely have project and team management experience. 

Location is another important factor that affects the salary of a React developer. Developers in cities with a high cost of living, such as San Francisco, London, or New York, can expect to earn higher salaries than those in smaller cities. (This is starting to change as more workers work remotely). 

The size of the company will also affect the salary of a React developer. Large companies with a high revenue typically offer higher salaries compared to small startups, while small startups may offer equity or other perks to attract candidates. 

Having additional skills and certifications, such as experience with other frameworks or certifications in React, can also increase a React developer’s salary. Most developers don’t strictly require a degree, but that will always push up their rates. 

Finally, it’s also essential to consider the skills gap and demand for workers. 

If the demand for React developers is high, salaries are likely to be higher. Conversely, if the demand for React developers is low, salaries are likely to be lower.

Conclusion

The average React JS developer’s salary may vary based on a number of factors, but companies can always find developers with more affordable rates by offshoring their work to other countries.

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Microsoft hosts Startups Summit in Cape Town

Microsoft hosts Startups Summit in Cape Town

Microsoft South Africa is hosting a Microsoft for Startups Summit – Cape Town meetup targetting founders, entrepreneurs, developers, venture capitals (VCs), accelerators, and their teams. The free event is in-person and will take place on December 1st. At the Innovation City Darter Studio, Longkloof, Gardens, Cape Town, South Africa.

The Microsoft Startups Summit – Cape Town event will offer attendees access to best practices and practical tools to evolve their venture and grow. It will enable networking opportunities and conversations among ecosystem players. As well as help accelerate innovation for first-time founders, serial entrepreneurs, or technical founders.

The invitation reads:

Every founder and startup is unique. Yet, there are common challenges that all founders face at different stages of their business journey, from validating ideas, accelerating the time to market to geo expansion, and gaining access to funding.

We are excited to present the Microsoft for Startups Meet-up Cape Town.

announcement details inviting start founders, developers VC to Microsoft Startups Summit - Cape Town event

This year, Microsoft announced new initiatives to accelerate the growth of 10,000 African startups and fast-track investment in Africa’s startup ecosystem over the next five years. Launching the Startups Founders Hub in Africa and partnering with accelerators and incubators to provide startups with access to markets, technical skills, and funding.

The startup summit agenda includes keynotes, fireside chats, breakout, networking, and cocktails sessions. There will also be a session on the startup journey with Microsoft from Founders Hub to Azure Marketplace. Speakers include Will Green Tech Founder- Grindstone, Ajay Lalu Co-Founder Q-HOP and David Rogers Founder and CEO, BancX.

Click to find out more details about the event and register to participate.

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Microsoft trains Omani youth in cloud, data, and AI

Microsoft trains Omani youth in cloud, data, and AI

Microsoft has launched a training programme targeting the Omani youth that focuses on developing cloud, data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills dubbed ‘Build the Skills of the Future’ in partnership with The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT), Oman.

This initiative comes as part of the MoU signed between both organizations in May this year. It is also in line with The Digital Competency Qualification Initiative (Makeen) to empower Omani youth with advanced digital skills needed to succeed in the digital era as well as provide them with income-generating opportunities in the digital sector. The initiative aims to train ten thousand Omani youths in digital skills by 2025.

Through the ‘Build the Skills of the Future’ programme, Microsoft will equip students, academia, SMEs, startups and government employees with the necessary skills to succeed in the ever-evolving technology and innovation ecosystem. The training also aligns with the government’s digital transformation programme, set to run until 2025. This complements one of the National Digital Economy Programme initiatives – a key facilitator toward accomplishing Oman Vision 2040 for sustainability and economic diversification.

The ‘Build the Skills of the Future’ training programme kicked off on November 6th and will continue until December 7th 2022 at the Middle East College in Knowledge Oasis Muscat, Rusayl, offering five Microsoft Azure certification tracks.

omani youth seated and listening to a microsoft intructor teach oman ai cloud

Omani youths can choose from a range of skill levels and course topics that will enlighten them on the fundamentals of cloud, Data and AI, as well as designing and implementing a complete Data and AI solution.

Commenting on the launch of the initiative, Sheikh Saif Hilal Al Hosni, General Manager for Microsoft in Oman and Bahrain, said, “The significance of combining academic qualifications with digital capabilities and professional certifications has become imperative for current employees, entrepreneurs, and those aspiring to join the workforce.”

We at Microsoft remain committed to encouraging lifelong learning, skilling and upskilling the workforce to fill professional gaps and ensure wholesome digital and economic transformation. With Microsoft’s unrivalled expertise, this training initiative with MTCIT will ensure government employees, students, as well as other professionals, are equipped with valued skills to accelerate the country’s digital transformation programme and ultimately drive the actualization of Oman Vision 2040”, he added.

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How Python is used in Cryptocurrency

How Python is used in Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency is something that most people are familiar with. If you are not, then it is a form of digital currency that’s used primarily for investment purposes. However, there are other sides outside of investment, like gambling, and even buying one’s groceries. Countries all around the world are starting to regulate it and are encouraging stores of all kinds to accept it as a form of payment.

Python, a programming language, is one of the most used programming languages in the cryptosphere. This article will explore  Python, explaining what it is, how it’s used for crypto, as well as why you should be using it for your projects.

What Is Python?

Python is a computer programming language, used for many different things. Its most popular uses are to build websites and to test software, though. It is without a doubt one of the world’s leading programming languages. You could even go as far as to say that it is the most popular. Ordinary crypto users have no use for Python. It’s only ever used by people who’re building cryptocurrencies or creating their own platforms. It is, therefore, not something the average trader needs to know much about.

How Is It Used?

Python is most commonly used to create cryptocurrencies. Many major cryptos were made using the Python language. It can of course also be used to build platforms and sites, like gambling sites. Most of the web’s BNB gambling sites (BNB being one of the major cryptocurrencies) use Python. The same is also true for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP sites. However, if you plan on making your own currency using Python, then you are going to need a lot of experience. It’s not easy making a cryptocurrency, or a site for that matter. There are a number of courses you can take on Python specific to crypto development.

Algorithmic Trading

Another use of Python in the cryptosphere is the creation of algorithmic trading bots. If you are somebody who’s interested in trading crypto but does not have the time to manage investments personally, then the creation of an algorithmic trading bot is something that’s worth considering. Most algorithmic trading bots are made using Python. The creation of an algorithmic trading bot will mean that you do not have to manage your investments yourself. That said, it’s still a good idea to set stop loss and take profit, just in case your bot malfunctions.

Trading Crypto

Deviating from this post’s topic for a moment, it’s important to briefly discuss crypto. If you plan on using Python to create bots (or your own currencies) then you will no doubt be handling crypto. You need to manage crypto carefully. Unfortunately, crypto has cost a lot of people a lot of money. Not carefully managing your investments could lead to you bankrupting yourself. There are various courses available online, that you can use to learn how to trade. Taking a course before getting involved with crypto is something that most experts recommend.

a computer screen shwing python lines of code
Photo by Chris Ried on Unsplash

Benefits of Using Python

Easy to Use

While Python is a high-level programming language, it’s still easy to learn. This is because Python has an English-like syntax. Learning to use Python is pretty straightforward. All you have to do is take a course in it online or read guides. Taking a course is probably the better option because you will receive instructions from somebody who’s experienced in the language. Before taking a course, research the person leading it. Ensure they are qualified, experienced, and know what they are talking about.

Python is Free

You do not have to pay anything to use Python. However, you might have to pay to sign up for a course. If you are on a budget, then it is without a doubt one of the best programming languages for you to learn. Something else worth noting is that because it’s free, it means that you will have more money to set aside and use for crypto. With Python, everything can be built from scratch. Bear in mind you will have to pay for things like website hosting and domain names if you are going to use it to create websites. Those things are not free.

Huge Library

Python’s standard library is huge. In it, you can find more or less any function that you could ever need. If you are trying to make crypto, then you will be able to find many functions there that can be of use to you.

Python is a popular programming language, and it’s not hard to see why. If you want to use it to make a cryptocurrency, create a platform, or design an algorithmic trading bot, then consider the points outlined here, and take some time to master Python first.

Featured image: Photo by Hitesh Choudhary on Unsplash

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Why software application is essential for your business to stay competitive

Why software application is essential for your business to stay competitive

There are many different types of software that your business can use to stay competitive. In this article, we will discuss the importance of software applications and how they can help your business. We will also talk about the different types of software that are available and how they can benefit your company. If you want to stay ahead of the competition, it is essential to invest in the right type of software application for your business!

software application
Image Source: Pixbay – geralt,

ERP Software

ERP software is a type of application that helps businesses to manage their operations more effectively. It can be used to track inventory levels, manage customer information, and automate many of the processes that are involved in running a business. ERP software can help businesses to save time and money by streamlining their operations. It’s important to compare different ERP software before choosing one. If you look at the comparison from technologyevaluation.com, you’ll see that there are some key features to look for in ERP software. Things like whether the software is cloud-based or on-premises, how easy it is to use, and what kind of support is offered are all important factors to consider.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software

Customer relationship management (CRM) software application is a technology for managing all your company’s relationships and interactions with customers and potential customers. The goal of CRM software is to help you improve your relationships with customers, which can lead to increased sales and higher levels of customer satisfaction. It’s important to choose the right CRM software for your business because a good CRM system can provide a significant return on investment (ROI). There are many different types of CRM software on the market, so it’s important to consider your specific needs when choosing a CRM system. For example, if you have a small business, you may not need all the bells and whistles that come with a more complex CRM system. On the other hand, if you have a large or growing business, you’ll want to make sure that your CRM system can scale to meet your needs.

Accounting Software

When you run a business, there are a lot of numbers involved. You need to track your income and expenses, calculate taxes, and manage payroll. Fortunately, there is accounting software to help you with all of these tasks. There are many different types of accounting software available, so it is important to choose one that is right for your business. Some software is designed for small businesses, while other software is made for larger companies. There are even some accounting software programs that are specifically for nonprofits. The most important thing to consider when choosing accounting software is whether it will meet your specific needs. For example, if you have a lot of inventory, you will need software that can track inventory levels and calculate the cost of goods sold. If you have employees, you will need software that can manage payroll and calculate taxes. Once you have determined what your needs are, you can start looking at different accounting software programs.

Data Entry Software

Data Entry Software is a computer program designed to assist people with the task of entering data into a computer. Data entry can be a time-consuming and error-prone process, so data entry software is designed to make it easier and faster. There are many different types of data entry software available, ranging from simple programs that just provide a keyboard shortcut for entering data, to more complex programs that help you manage your data and automate repetitive tasks. The best way to find the right data entry software for your needs is to first identify what type of data you need to enter, and then find a program that is designed for that specific task. For example, if you need to enter a lot of addresses, you might want to use a program that includes a built-in address book. Another important consideration is how easy the software is to use. Some data entry programs can be quite complex and may require a significant learning curve.

software applications
Image Source: Pixbay – jamesmarkosborne

In conclusion, there are many different types of software available, and it is important to choose the right one for your needs. Be sure to consider things like whether the software application is cloud-based or on-premises, how easy it is to use, and what kind of support is offered. Also, be sure to identify your specific needs before choosing a software program. With so many different types of software available, there is sure to be one that is perfect for your business.

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Featured Image Source: Pixbay – fancycrave1

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