NASA interns at the Glenn Research Center in Cleveland collaborated with TechLit Africa, a non-profit organization that teaches digital skills in Kenyan rural schools, to provide virtual lessons to students in Mogotio, Kenya. The interns shared their knowledge on robot simulation, artificial intelligence, and drawing and modeling applications without having to travel thousands of miles.
Marc Frances, an extended reality developer and former NASA intern, expressed his privilege in helping the Kenyan students and being a part of such an impactful initiative. NASA outreach events aim to inspire children from diverse backgrounds to pursue a career in engineering and contribute to something bigger than themselves.
The partnership between NASA interns and TechLit Africa was facilitated by Herb Schilling, a Glenn computer scientist, who met Nelly Cheboi, the CEO of TechLit Africa, during a virtual event in 2020. Inspired by Cheboi’s work with students in Kenya, Schilling encouraged the interns to share their expertise and engage in teaching opportunities to make a positive impact.
Using a beginner-level coding application, the interns guided Cheboi’s students in designing and animating a rocket for a virtual space launch. The collaboration was rewarding and insightful for both parties, leading Cheboi and her partner, Tyler Cinnamon, to visit Glenn Research Center to learn more about NASA and meet Schilling in person.
Cheboi recognized as CNN’s 2022 Hero of the Year highlighted the importance of exposure and opportunity in shaping the future of students. The impact of the virtual lessons on the Kenyan students emphasized the significance of creating a supportive environment for children to explore and pursue their interests. Visit the NASA Engages webpage
