On November 22, 2024, BSA held an in-person workshop called Getting Started with Blockchain: Guided Learning for Career Impact. Sponsored by Sonic Labs, Wildforest, and Tribally, the event aimed to teach students the basics of blockchain and its career opportunities. It was a great success, attracting students eager to learn about this exciting technology.

Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators

The workshop was divided into two tracks, each tailored to specific student groups. Track 1, held in the AVR of the IT Building, catered to a general audience of around 100-120 first and second-year college students from IT, Computer Science, Library and Information Science, and related fields. Track 2, conducted in the Computer Lab, focused on a smaller group of 30-40 third-year IT students, offering them an introduction to smart contract basics.

The morning session kicked off with an efficient ingress and registration process, setting an organized tone for the event. Attendees were welcomed with preliminaries, including the Pambansang Awit, a prayer, and the USeP Hymn, creating a sense of unity and purpose among participants.

Dr. Ivy Kim Machica, Dean of the College of Information and Computing, delivered the opening remarks, setting an inspiring stage for the discussions ahead. The spotlight then turned to the expert speakers from Bitskwela, a leading blockchain education platform.

Exploring Blockchain and Career Opportunities

Manman Cezar, Bitskwela’s Resident Trader and Chief of Staff, captivated the audience with his session on blockchain fundamentals. He broke down complex concepts into simple, relatable terms, ensuring even those new to the technology could grasp its transformative potential.

Tony Rebamonte, Bitskwela’s Head of Content, followed with a compelling presentation on Web3 career opportunities. He highlighted the growing demand for blockchain-literate professionals and how students can leverage blockchain education to carve out rewarding careers in this cutting-edge field.

To keep the energy high, the session included raffle giveaways, with lucky students taking home exciting prizes. The event wrapped up with an engaging AMA (Ask Me Anything) session, where students posed thoughtful questions to the speakers, further deepening their understanding of blockchain technology. A group photo op and closing remarks concluded the morning session, leaving attendees inspired and motivated.

Deep Dive into Smart Contracts

The afternoon session catered to more advanced learners, diving into the basics of smart contracts. Led by Koleen from Bitskwela’s DevUp! initiative, the session provided hands-on learning experiences, equipping students with foundational skills to explore blockchain development further. The intimate setting of the Computer Lab allowed for personalized guidance, ensuring each participant received valuable insights.

A Memorable Experience for All

The workshop, organized with meticulous attention to detail, left a lasting impression on both attendees and speakers. “Seeing the enthusiasm of the students and their eagerness to learn about blockchain is incredibly inspiring,” said Tony Rebamonte.

With a strong turnout and positive feedback, the Getting Started with Blockchain workshop successfully introduced students to the exciting world of blockchain technology, empowering them to envision its impact on their future careers. BSA University’s commitment to fostering innovation and education in emerging technologies promises to prepare students for a thriving future in the digital age.