We advocate for, and teach, Free and Open-Source Software as a foundation for equitable access to technology. FOSS enables learners to understand how tools work, adapt them to local needs, and share improvements with others.
From March 2025 the author began migrating from Windows 10 OS to Linux Mint, and subsequently uses Linux full-time since in September 2025.
What we focus on:
- Open-Source operating systems e.g. Linux Mint distro
- Programming open-source electronics in C (Arduino IDE), or Python
- Computer Aided Design (CAD) software: OnShape, FreeCAD, Blender
- Collaborative project-led design process using CAD software.
- Designing Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) using KiCAD
- Website design
- Photojournalism and video editing
- Ethical and responsible technology use
- Digital self-reliance and transparency
Why it matters:
Open-source tools reduce barriers to entry and prevent dependency on proprietary systems, and subscriptions. They align with our values of shared knowledge, community ownership, and long-term sustainability.
Applications:
- Prototyping environmental technologies, for sensing and monitoring
- Real-time data collection and analysis
- Creating a website for business or personal use
- Project collaboration, and team building, using CAD software
- Low, or zero, software overhead using open-source software