ConsenSys, the global hub developing blockchain technologies, has just announced the launch of a 3-day blockchain developer training in Beirut, followed by a 2-day hackathon. The training, which starts on October 17th, will offer in-depth training sessions, from the workings of blockchain technology to its applications and features. Participants will learn how to create a development environment, build decentralized applications (dApp) with Ethereum smart contracts and integrate the dApps with web applications.
“Lebanon has always adopted an entrepreneurial approach in dealing with challenges; and the startup ecosystem has been growing in the recent years. There are a lot of developers and entrepreneurs looking for some expert guidance and direction,” said Marc Ziade, Business Operations & Strategy Director at ConsenSys and Lebanon Bootcamp Lead.
The organization also announced that 25 percent of the spaces available in the bootcamp will be offered for free to refugees who are already adept at programing, in an effort to address one of Lebanon’s population of refugees. The UNHCR reports that there are more than 1 million Syrian refugees registered, but according to the Human Rights Watch, the Lebanese government estimates them at 1.5 million.
“Not only will the bootcamp create awareness about how to unlock the potential of a new technology like blockchain while staying away from the crypto-currency craze, but will also harness the talent we know exists in Lebanon and equip them with the skills needed to tackle these challenges,” Ziade added.
The initiative was brought to light with the support of Strategy&, Beirut Digital District, Middle East Venture Partners, Flat6Labs, ArabNet and TechFugees. “We look forward to working closely with our partners in Lebanon to find this next generation of brilliant minds and help define the many use cases in this country that could benefit from blockchain technology,” said ConsenSys MENA’s director Asim Janjua. The 3-day training will be held at Beirut Digital District on October 17 followed by a 2-day hackathon, that will see 3 winners take home the prize.
Applications are open until September 30th here.
Main photo: Marc Ziade, Business Operations & Strategy Director at ConsenSys. Courtesy of Consensys.
