CSA Africa 2019 Python Workshop ran physically from 19–30 August 2019 at the University of Rwanda, Kigali, where we trained undergraduates, postgraduates, and staff members across the College of Science and Technology. The two-week intensive workshop was delivered by a team of five instructors from the University of Glasgow alongside two remarkable alumni from CSA 2018 Ifeoma and Paul from the University of Ibadan who participated as tutors to build their capacity to organise future workshops. 

Participants were split into two groups based on experience level, with workshops running simultaneously in well-equipped labs. The programme covered concepts from basic programming constructs to advanced techniques including data analysis, BBC micro:bit programming, and object-oriented programming in Python. Each day combined taught sessions with hands-on problem-solving, with tutors supporting participants as they practised new concepts. In the afternoon, participants volunteered to explain problems on the board, addressing common misconceptions. 

The second week culminated in team-based projects: one group built an interpreter whilst the other tackled a data science challenge. On the final day, participants delivered presentations and demonstrated their progress. The transformation was remarkable participants gained confidence over the two weeks, working effectively together, explaining concepts to peers, and tackling errors independently. 

The dedication of participants was extraordinary. Some juggled workshop attendance with work and family commitments. One participant travelled 25 hours by road from Kenya to attend. This drive to learn made the experience incredibly special and worthwhile. The workshop's impact was so significant that the University of Rwanda incorporated Python programming into their curriculum. 

The CSA Africa team would like to thank the School of Computing Science, the University of Glasgow Chancellor's Fund, and the Global Challenges Research Fund for funding and support. Special thanks to Professor Phillip Cotton (Vice Chancellor), Dr. Ignace Gatare (Principal of the College of Science and Technology), Dr. Richard Musabe (Dean of the School of ICT), Joseph Kaberuka, and the IT staff at the University of Rwanda.