In a significant stride towards advancing IoT education in Tanzania, the VocalizeIoT initiative, spearheaded by Waziup e.V., successfully conducted a comprehensive ‘Train-the-Trainer’ session at VETA KIPAWA in Dar es Salaam from January 20th to 22nd, 2025. This intensive program aimed to equip VETA KIPAWA’s TVET staff with the essential skills and resources needed to deliver high-quality IoT training, utilizing cutting-edge technologies like the WaziLab platform and Waziup hardware.
The three-day session, meticulously planned in collaboration with VETA KIPAWA and DTBi partners, covered a wide array of topics, from fundamental IoT concepts to advanced applications. Participants engaged in hands-on workshops, learning to program development boards, set up gateways, and utilize cloud platforms to send and visualize sensor data. The curriculum, designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, also included sessions on developing simple IoT web applications and exploring the potential of AI in IoT solutions.
Key Activities and Engagement
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The training provided an in-depth review of the drafted IoT curriculum, incorporating valuable feedback from VETA KIPAWA staff.
- Hands-On Experience: Participants gained practical experience with Waziup technologies, including WaziLab, WaziCloud, and WaziGate, through interactive workshops and exercises.
- Skill Development: The program focused on enhancing trainers’ ability to deliver effective IoT education, addressing key areas like sensor node prototyping, LoRaWAN communication, and API integration.
- Empowering Educators: VETA KIPAWA staff were equipped to utilize the Solution Lab hardware, provided by Waziup, within their IoT training programs.
- Future-Proofing Education: The training introduced data analysis, visualization, and Artificial Intelligence, ensuring educators are prepared for the evolving landscape of IoT.
The training addressed the need to bridge technical gaps, identified among some of the VETA KIPAWA trainers. The utilization of the WaziLab platform was encouraged to reinforce the training, and to provide continued learning.
The “Train-the-Trainer” initiative not only imparted technical skills but also fostered a collaborative environment for knowledge sharing and curriculum development. By empowering VETA KIPAWA’s trainers, VocalizeIoT is paving the way for a new generation of IoT professionals in Tanzania.
Outcomes & Impact
By the program’s conclusion, VETA KIPAWA trainers gained proficiency in:
-
Programming WaziDev/WaziSense boards and deploying LoRaWAN networks.
-
Developing IoT web applications for remote device management.
-
Utilizing WaziLab’s 12-course curriculum for future student training.
“The training transformed our approach to tech education,” shared Martin Choma, a VETA KIPAWA representative. “We’re now equipped to inspire the next generation of IoT innovators.”
Next Steps
VETA KIPAWA trainers are now tasked with reviewing the IoT curriculum draft and providing feedback. They are also encouraged to continue practicing using the WaziLab platform to deepen their understanding and enhance their teaching capabilities.
The success of this training marks a significant milestone in the VocalizeIoT project’s mission to democratize IoT education and empower local institutions to drive technological innovation.
Stay tuned for more updates!
