Please describe your proposed solution
Project Overview
Cardano Catalyst Governance Student Awareness
With the increasing focus on decentralized governance in blockchain, the role of platforms like Cardano in fostering Web 3.0 solutions is pivotal. This project, in partnership with Gateway to Digital Technology Limited seeks to empower Ghanaian cardano students communities and new entrants to the ecosystem by deepening their understanding of Cardano's governance structure, with a specific emphasis on roles within Project Catalyst. These roles include Delegated Representatives (DReps), Proposers, and Voters, all of which are integral to shaping the future of blockchain technology and decentralized decision-making.
Building on Our Foundation
Following our prior work on blockchain advocacy, this initiative seeks to go beyond technology and introduce students to the governance framework within Cardano. In partnership with Students Associations in the entrepreneurship at the various Universities, the project will conduct an educational summit focusing on decentralized decision-making. The summit will emphasize the role students can play in shaping the future of Web 3.0 and decentralized governance by participating in Catalyst roles. Our goal is to empower students with the skills and tools necessary to actively participate in Project Catalyst, Cardano's governance framework, by educating them on key governance roles such as Delegated Representatives (DReps), Catalyst proposers, and voters.
Proposal Fit to the Challenge
This project fits the challenge by offering practical governance education, raising awareness about Project Catalyst, and encouraging student entrepreneurs to actively participate in governance roles. Our objectives include:
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Educating students on the key governance roles within Project Catalyst—Proposers, DReps, and Voters—and the importance of decentralized governance in Web 3.0.
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Mentoring students on how to become active in Catalyst by participating as Proposers, Reviewers, Delegated Representatives (DReps), or Voters, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the platform.
The African Opportunity
Africa, especially Ghana, presents a burgeoning space for blockchain-driven governance innovations. However, active participation in blockchain governance remains low. This project positions Cardano's Catalyst as a critical tool for empowering young entrepreneurs and innovators to take up governance roles. By focusing on students, we aim to build a pipeline of well-informed DReps, Proposers, and Voters who can shape governance decisions, further enhancing Cardano's growth on the continent.
Focus Area
This summit will explore how students can engage with Cardano's governance structure, guiding them through the roles of Proposers, DReps, and Voters. Students will be introduced to tools and strategies to become active participants in governance, empowering them to contribute to Catalyst's decision-making processes and propose solutions that address real-world problems.
Core Presentation Topics
- A detailed overview of Cardano's decentralized governance system, focusing on Catalyst's unique approach to decision-making.
- In-depth sessions on the responsibilities and processes associated with each governance role, emphasizing how students can take up these roles.
- How to submit proposals, vote on Catalyst projects, and represent the community as a Delegated Representative (DRep).
Other Focus Areas
There would be other sessions that would be incorporated into these events to provide an interactive and a networking environment for personal engagements. Among these areas are:
Interactive Learning and Practical Experience
• Hands-On Workshops:
A series of interactive workshops where students can practice submitting proposals, acting as DReps, and voting on Catalyst projects. This would provide practical insights into the governance processes within Project Catalyst. E.g., Simulated proposal submissions, role-playing as voters or reviewers, and discussing real-world governance scenarios.
• Showcasing Success Stories:
Highlight case studies of successful student-led or community-driven proposals funded by Catalyst. This will help students see the real-world impact of their participation and motivate them to engage. E.g., Presentations on previous Catalyst-funded projects from students or community groups that have created tangible changes.
Outreach and Student Engagement Strategy
• Collaboration with Blockchain/Tech Clubs:
Partner with blockchain and tech clubs within universities, as well as entrepreneurship hubs, to extend the project’s reach. This collaboration will ensure that students with a strong interest in technology and governance are aware of and involved in the event.
Target Audience
The target audience is university students, particularly those with an interest in entrepreneurship, governance, and technology. This project will equip students with knowledge and practical skills to engage in decentralized governance roles within Project Catalyst.
Potential Barriers & Solutions
• Engagement of Students:
We will work with university clubs, entrepreneurship hubs, and technology groups to actively promote the event on social media, making governance participation relatable and practical.
• Incentives for Participation:
To encourage active involvement, attendees will be incentivized with educational materials and rewards, such as tokens for participation in governance activities (voting or proposal submission) post-event.