by Jittin Mathew for BISMumbai

On 25 January 2020 a half-day awareness session on use of computer coding was organized by a team from Accenture for 66 boys of Bosco Boys' Home, (BBH) Borivli(W)-Mumbai. The main objective of this informative and educative session, named the ‘The Hour of Code', was to make the boys understand that anyone can learn the basics of coding and to broaden participation in the field of computer science.

The ‘Hour of Code’ basically stared as a 1 hour introduction to computer science, design to simplify code, online games and activities for computer coding. The Accenture team also educated the boys through motivational talks, session on career development by providing individual guidance. This free-of-cost initiative was to promote technical education. After the workshop, a group discussion in which boys shared their individual experience was organised.

Parshuram Poojari, a NIOS (National Institute of Open School) student said, “It was nice to see the live demo of computer coding and individual guidance by the team of Accenture, and they made the session easy and enjoyable. It was thrilling to do the coding by ourselves. I feel very much excited to do my further studies in this field” The Accenture team of volunteers said, “Before the workshop, hardly few students were interested in learning coding. But it was good to see that after the workshop many kids felt that anybody can learn the basics of coding as it is very interesting and not boring. The session especially with live demos made the kids enjoy and thoroughly taking part in the workshop.” They told the boys, “We should not copy but use our own Intelligence God has bestowed on you must take advantage of the various technological advancements that are available at your disposal.”

Father Xavier Bandya, the Prefect of Studies thanked the team of Accenture, saying, “We really appreciate the quality time spent by your team in educating our boys through these activities which will definitely brighten their interest in the field of computer science." He further added, "we are really impressed by the dedication, commitment and consistency demonstrated by your team of volunteers. We wish you all the best for the future and you are most welcome to volunteer with us again."