Waukee CSD Students to Lead in Statewide Tech Initiative

Two Waukee High School student will share their tech expertise and leadership at the state level.

The Iowa Communications Network (ICN) selected Nikhil Vaduguri and Lavanya Prem for the Statewide Youth Broadband Advisory Council (SYBAC) for the 2024-25 school year. The group is composed of 20 teens from across the state. SYBAC offers high school students the unique opportunity to engage in important discussions about internet-related topics, explore Iowa’s technology landscape, learn coding, and even complete cybersecurity certification training. In addition to regular meetings from September through April, participants will collaborate with ICN personnel, undertake a cybersecurity community service project, and hear directly from Iowa’s tech industry leaders. The council focuses on gathering insights and feedback from Iowa’s youth, aiming to address the evolving landscape of technology in education and beyond.

Nikhil says he’s interested in discussing self-driving vehicles, and Lavanya is excited about the cybersecurity certification being offered.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the ICN organizing the student council, which began during the 2015-16 school year. The program allows Iowa’s young tech enthusiasts to expand their knowledge, contribute ideas, and help shape the future of broadband and technology in the state.