Astrid Ndona
Jun 24, 2025
A promising beginning for Bridges of Hope Academy’s impact in the DRC
On June 24, 2025, Bridges of Hope Academy officially launched its first pilot class with a group of motivated students from Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. The session focused on basic computer skills, programming with Scratch, and an introduction to robotics using educational kits.
This milestone marks the Academy’s transition from planning to hands-on delivery. The pilot program involved 12 students between the ages of 9 and 16, connecting remotely through smartphones and laptops, with support from local partner organizations.
“We saw students’ eyes light up when their first robot moved or their Scratch animation ran. That’s the kind of spark we aim to ignite,” shared Astrid Ndona, course coordinator and lead facilitator.
The session was led by volunteer instructors based in the U.S. and the DRC, demonstrating the Academy’s hybrid and transcontinental model.
Key Highlights from the Pilot:
12 students enrolled, 6 boys and 6 girls
90% had never used Scratch or coded before
Sessions were interactive and bilingual (French/English)
Local partners provided safe spaces with internet and supervision
The success of this first pilot strengthens Bridges of Hope Academy’s ambition to scale its virtual classrooms and reach hundreds of young learners across francophone Africa by the end of 2025.