Closing the digital poverty gap: Make It Happen's innovative approach to education

In an era where digital consumption often overshadows creation, a significant gap—known as the digital poverty gap—has emerged, limiting access to technology and opportunities for many. Scotland-based charity Make It Happen (MIH) is at the forefront of addressing this challenge by inspiring children aged 5-11 to transition from digital consumers to creators. Utilizing submission-based student entries, MIH has designed an inclusive, scalable model that integrates seamlessly into school curricula.

Empowering children through inclusive competitions

MIH's unique approach involves hosting real-world, school-wide competitions that are designed to be inclusive and accessible to all children. This initiative has successfully reached over 50,000 pupils across 260 schools, not only teaching them digital skills, but also fostering diversity, engagement and meaningful relationships.

Our pupils are challenged as follows:

Think it!

Imagine you have the power to solve any problem or create something fun with your own app. What would that be? Maybe you dream of an app that can send a unicorn soaring through space, or perhaps one that organizes your homework in a snap. Think of:

• Who would use your app? Think about whom you are designing for.
• Why would they use it? Identify the problem it solves or the joy it brings.
• What would it do? Dream big—your app can achieve anything you believe!

Design it!

Now, let’s give your idea some shape. What’s the name of your app, and how would you describe it to someone who’s never seen it before?

• Sketch your app. Draw what it would look like and how users might interact with it. It can be as simple or as artistic as you like.
• Describe its functionality. How does your app work? What amazing features does it have? Let your imagination flow.

Build it!

For the winning idea, the adventure continues with our team of expert engineers who will help you make it a real app. This is a unique opportunity to help code and create your idea so that anyone in the world can play it.

Fostering diversity and building relationships

The impact of MIH extends beyond teaching digital skills. It also promotes diversity, instills a sense of joy in learning and builds strong community relationships. These elements are crucial in creating a supportive ecosystem that nurtures future digital innovators.

Reaching out to the communities least served, due to financial or geographical gaps to resources, allows the talent in those communities to seize opportunities otherwise out of reach.

Collaborating for greater impact

MIH's efforts are bolstered by the support of the J.P. Morgan Tech for Social Good program, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in bridging the digital divide. This work enhances MIH's capabilities to reach more children and further enrich their learning experiences.

Make It Happen is established and working with schools and pupils from our tech sites in Glasgow, London, Bournemouth, Hong Kong and Jersey City, with more coming soon.

Make It Happen has thus far:

• Reached 100,000 pupils (21,000 pupils in 2024)
• Engaged 264 schools (123 in 2024)

Learn more about Make It Happen’s mission

Make It Happen is a small charity with a large global goal—to inspire the next generation of digital creators. By fostering diversity, building relationships (and apps) and collaborating for a greater impact, we aim to nurture a generation of learners proficient in digital skills from every background.

If you feel inspired by our mission, you can find out more about Make It Happen on our website or our social media.