Coder Dojo launched in Birr
Budding Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerbergs in Offaly were given a boost on Wednesday last, with the launch of the Birr branch of the not for profit computer coding camp Coder Dojo. Supported by Shannon Development and Offaly County Enterprise Board, the coding club will run at Birr Technology Centre. The official launch of the club was carried out by Junior Education Minister Ciaran Cannon along with Coder Dojo co-founders Bill Liao and James Whelton. Speaking at the launch Minister Cannon outlined the benefits of the new club. "At Coder Dojo Birr young people will learn the rudiments of computer programming using these skills to develop websites, mobile apps and games," he said. "It is an entrepreneur-led initiative that requires the support of the local business community and organisations such as Shannon Development and Offaly County Enterprise Board." Shannon Development CEO Dr Vincent Cunnane said his organisation is delighted to support the project that looks to create a new generation of technology entrepreneurs and developers. Offaly County Enterprise Board CEO Sean Ryan said the new club will provide an environment where interested young people can meet like-minded peers as well as learning new IT skills. "Offaly County Enterprise Board believes that this initiative in Birr has the potential to increase the number of technology start-up businesses in the midlands area," he added. "By introducing the creative aspects of technology to young people we are broadening their horizons and opportunities to become future entrepreneurs." Coder Dojos are set up, run and taught by volunteers. Coder Dojo Birr has been set up by Ericsson project manager Deardriu Lally, IBM IT specialist Declan Lally, business lecturer at LIT Laura Dargan and Birr Technology Centre manager Denis Duggan. Children aged eight to 18 are welcome at Birr Coder Dojo, which will run on Wednesday evenings at Birr Technology Centre free of charge. Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult. All mentors are fully vetted by Gardaí. More details are available from Denis Duggan on 057 9124001 or duggand@shannondevelopment and from Deardriu Lally on 087 9351318 or deardriu@gmail.com. Anyone interested in becoming a mentor or volunteer should email birrcoderdojo@gmail.com.