Open-source thrives when fresh perspectives and diverse voices join the community, and students are one of the most powerful groups to lead that charge. In this talk, I will explore how academic institutions and student communities can bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world impact by contributing to WordPress and other open-source projects. Drawing from my own experience engaging with students and faculty, I will share strategies for introducing open-source in educational settings, addressing common challenges, and creating pathways for students to contribute meaningfully even without deep technical expertise.
Attendees will learn how open-source involvement can enhance students’ skills, boost employability, and foster leadership, while also empowering institutions to create a culture of innovation and collaboration. This session will highlight actionable steps to build sustainable student engagement and demonstrate why empowering students as contributors is key to the long-term growth of the WordPress ecosystem. I will also include the story of organizing WordPress Campus Connect Dhaka 2025 with 20 partner campuses and 2000+ students over a month-long event in multiple campuses.