See What's For This Year
The plan is open sourced
Living Open Source University (LOSU) – Zambia 2024
Living Open Source University (LOSU) is an initiative of the Living Open Source Foundation. This program offers a
free, one-year course to 12 selected students, providing them the opportunity to earn various open source
certifications. This document outlines the program details and requirements for applicants.
Program Details
LOSU’s one year program is conducted at the LOSU venue in Lusaka, Zambia. Students are expected to attend
classes daily and collaborate closely with their peers. The program emphasizes group work and regular class
attendance.
A detailed study plan will be provided, and students will utilize the provided course materials for their learning.
The program combines self-study with regular mentor guidance. Students will cover the following topics in the
order listed, with the opportunity to earn certifications in each:
1. Linux Foundation Certified Associate (LFCA)
2. Linux Foundation Certified System Administrator (LFCS)
3. Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA)
4. Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD)
5. Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA)
Student Requirements
Due to the limited number of slots (12 per year), students must apply and meet the following criteria
Open Source Attitude: Students should embody an open source mindset and, after completing the program, are
expected to mentor local groups to help others get certified.
Language Proficiency: Students must be able to communicate in either English or French. As most course
materials are in English, a sufficient command of the English language is required.
IT Affinity: Applicants must demonstrate a strong interest in IT, with evidence provided in their application.
Commitment and Motivation: Students must be dedicated to completing the program. During interviews,
candidates must explain how they will ensure full dedication throughout the year-long program.
Post-Program Commitment: Upon successful completion, students must commit to mentoring future students
for at least two years, without financial compensation.
Student Benefits
Free Course Materials and Certification Vouchers: Students will receive course materials and certification
vouchers valued at $3,000.
Introduction to Sponsoring Companies: Students will be introduced to sponsoring companies, which may offer
job interviews to participants, significantly enhancing their employment prospects.
Financial Assistance: Students may qualify for financial support during their studies, determined on a case-by-
case basis by the LOSU organization.
This initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of open source professionals who will contribute to and expand
the open source community in Zambia and beyond.
key activities for 2024
Living Open Source University is an initiative under the foundation aimed at providing structured education in Open Source technology. It offers a comprehensive one-year program designed to equip students with cutting-edge IT certifications. LOSU focuses on:
This is the phase where motivated people can join the program. Potential students need to show their motivation and apply for the program. Once a number of students has joined the program, on-line meetings will be provided so that candidates get to know each other.This is the phase where motivated people can join the program. Potential students need to show their motivation and apply for the program. Once a number of students has joined the program, on-line meetings will be provided so that candidates get to know each other.
Qualified students will get access to online learning for free. This allows students to start learning as soon as possible, and gather knowledge before coming to the on-site training event.Qualified students will get access to online learning for free. This allows students to start learning as soon as possible, and gather knowledge before coming to the on-site training event.
A one week on-site training will be organized. This will be a generic training, in which courses in Linux Fundamentals, Containers and Kubernetes Fundamentals as well as scripting fundamentals will be provided. All students will be required to join the on-site training for the duration of the event. LOSU will provide assistance where needed to enable students to join the event. On each day of the event students will be required to sign in. A one week on-site training will be organized. This will be a generic training, in which courses in Linux Fundamentals, Containers and Kubernetes Fundamentals as well as scripting fundamentals will be provided. All students will be required to join the on-site training for the duration of the event. LOSU will provide assistance where needed to enable students to join the event. On each day of the event students will be required to sign in.
Before the end of the week, a personalized learning program will be created for each of the students. This allows students to develop their skills in any Open Source technology they are interested in.
Based on the personalized learning programs, students will continue online learning for a period of nine months. During this period, each student has their own personal mentor, who will assist in the learning process. Also, every two weeks a group meeting with an education content will be organized.
During the nine months period students will plan their exams. Different people learn at different paces, which is why the exams are scheduled when students are ready to take them, in accordance with the personal mentors.
After approximately nine months, another on-site event will be organized. This event is only accessible for students who have actively participated in the program throughout the entire period. Education in advanced open source topics will be provided, as well as exam preparation sessions if needed. Also, the grassroot process will be started.
Successful candidates will be briefed to start the grassroot process. This means that they will bring the knowledge they have acquired to their own area and ensure that local talent receives free education.
New events will be organized, and in the end all motivated people will be educated.