On July 26, 2023. Minodu, one of the regoinal projects, was launched in Kara with the aim of fostering local sustainable development through the innovative use of community-based co-design, technology and research. The project's launching ceremony was a remarkable success, attracting more than 100 participants, including enthusiastic students eager to learn and contribute. The project will be implemented in several rural communities of the Kara region by a consortium made up of Kara University, German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI) and local actors in digital transformation. 

The presence of dedicated researchers, directors and managers of Kara University, and representatives from agricultural research institutes underscored the seriousness and commitment of stakeholders involved in the initiative. Their collective expertise and experience will be instrumental in guiding the project's trajectory and ensuring it remains on track for positive and lasting impacts. As Professor Sanda, President of Kara University underlined, technology is a powerful bridge between research and local development and his institution is ready to work in that sense.

Minodu's official launch was followed by two days of immersive, hands-on workshops in which nearly 100 students actively participated. These workshops served as a platform for the students to gain deeper insights into the project's objectives and understand the pivotal role they would play in its success. One of the primary goals of the workshops was to explore ways to enhance science communication with their respective villages of origin, making them the vital bridge between the project and the local communities. The students were brimming with enthusiasm as they absorbed knowledge and practical skills that would enable them to be active contributors to the Minodu project. They had the opportunity to learn valuable tech skills, delve into coding, practice electronic soldering, and even build a weather station using ESP32s, among other exciting activities. This hands-on experience not only empowered them with new capabilities but also ignited a passion for sustainable development and community engagement.

As the project progresses, the students who participated in the workshops will be the essential link between the Minodu team and their communities of origin. They will share their knowledge, skills, and experiences gained during the workshops, helping to bridge the gap between academia and local realities. By effectively communicating and involving their villages of origin in the project, they will play a key role in ensuring that Minodu's efforts align with the needs and aspirations of the community in addressing local development challenges sustainably.

Minodu's launch in Kara, Togo, has marked the beginning of an exciting four years journey toward local sustainable development through technology and research. With the active involvement of students and various experts, the project promises to bring positive change and empower communities to thrive in the face of challenges. The next four years will be exciting, explorative, and busy, and the anticipation for what Minodu will achieve in a collaborative effort is palpable among all those who were part of the launch events.