Arielle Kitio Tsamo has redefined education in Africa by championing digital skills among young people. She is a software engineer and social entrepreneur from Cameroon. In 2017, she founded the Cameroon Youth School Tech Incubator (CAYSTI) to bridge educational gaps in Africa, where limited access to digital resources and infrastructure often leaves young people needing essential technical skills. Driven by the belief that every child deserves equal access to quality education regardless of background, her work prioritises inclusivity and innovation.
Through CAYSTI, nearly 29,000 children across Africa have learned coding, robotics, artificial intelligence, and other ICT skills. The initiative does not just teach technical expertise; it also encourages creativity and problem-solving. A standout achievement is ABC Code, software that enables children to learn programming in African languages. By breaking down language barriers, this tool helps young learners connect technology with their cultural context, empowering them to create solutions rooted in their communities.
Her work has earned international recognition. ABC Code, praised by UNESCO and the African Union, exemplifies inclusive education. Her “Coding in National Languages” contest, launched in 2019, challenges children to address local issues through technology. Participants have developed practical solutions like mobile apps for locating public toilets and delivering fire safety tutorials.
Her mission to support women in technology spans multiple platforms. In 2022, she launched TechWomen Factory, a programme designed to equip women with ICT skills, including data science and digital art, thus enabling them to build careers in a traditionally male-dominated industry. This initiative’s recognition as a finalist at the World Bank Youth Summit in Washington, D.C., highlights its potential to drive economic change by empowering women.
Arielle Kitio Tsamo is also committed to women’s empowerment. While studying computer science at the University of Yaoundé, she observed the societal norms and biases that discouraged women from pursuing STEM fields. Motivated by this, she founded WIT (Information Technology for Women & Youth) in 2015, an NGO that seeks to increase women’s participation in STEM education and improve internet access across Africa.
Her relentless dedication to digital education and gender equity has earned numerous accolades, including the TechWomen Award from the U.S. Department of State in 2016 and Cameroon’s National Award of Excellence for Youth in 2019. These recognitions highlight her achievements and amplify her platform, enabling her to expand initiatives like Connect My School. In collaboration with UNICEF and Cameroon’s Ministry of Basic Education, this project leverages technology to transform teaching and learning in primary schools.
Arielle Kitio Tsamo is reshaping Africa’s education and technology narrative through her organisation. By equipping youth with digital skills and championing gender inclusivity, the founder creates opportunities for thousands and demonstrates how technology can bridge divides and inspire progress across the continent.
