In her speech, which was delivered by Dr. Roselida Owuor, the Deputy Director of Research in Education, Science, and Technology in Kenya, Dr. Beatrice Muganda Inyangala the Principal Secretary, the State Department for Higher Education and Research advocated for open science practices to foster transparency and accessibility in higher education.

“The State Department wishes to encourage universities and research institutions to adopt open access publishing, open data sharing and open educational resources”.

On Wednesday, September 20th, a noteworthy event took place in Nairobi, Kenya, where the Training Center in Communication Africa (TCC Africa), in collaboration with The East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) and the Public Library of Science (PLOS), Kenya Libraries and Information services Consortium (KLISC) organized the Kenya National Open Science Dialogue for Academic and Research Institutions. This significant gathering was hosted by the University of Nairobi and featured the introduction of a visionary agenda by the State Department for Higher Education.

This agenda highlighted a strong commitment to advancing open access publishing, fostering open data sharing, and promoting the use of open educational resources within the academic community.

Dr. Roselida Owuor, the Deputy Director of Research in Education, Science, and Technology in Kenya.

“The State department plays a critical role in allocating funding and resources to research findings by aligning funding criteria with open science principles”. She added by embracing open science principles, the State Department has the potential to establish an environment conducive to transparent research practices.

The event whose aim is to mitigate challenges on Implementation of Open Science mandates in universities, brought together stakeholders, academics, researchers, policymakers, and students to discuss open science practices.

Professor Stephen Kiama, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, characterized the Open Science Dialogue as a gathering that symbolizes a strong commitment to the relentless pursuit of knowledge, innovation, and the advancement of science.

“Our commitment to research excellence at the University of Nairobi has yielded remarkable results, and our dedication to research remains steadfast,” he affirmed. “Through the adoption of open science, our researchers and students have experienced increased visibility, collaborative opportunities, and access to a global audience.”

This has enabled the University to identify the challenges in the line of open science, defining a road map for Kenya’s National open science initiatives and enhance education awareness.

Professor Kiama urged everyone to share their ideas and discoveries for the future of science and research.

Joy Owango, the Executive Director at the Training Center in Communication (TCC Africa), raised an important question about how open science will bring benefit universities and researchers, while also highlighting the pivotal role that TCC plays in this context.

She explained, “Our advocacy for open science stems from the recognition that research can be a costly. However, open science provides us with affordable access to crucial infrastructure and resources, most notably, for free. This support is invaluable for nurturing our knowledge economy.”

In essence, Joy Owango underscores the economic advantages and knowledge-sharing potential that open science brings to the academic world, especially to universities and students.

Joy Owango, the Executive Director TCC Africa.

Dr Sylvance Okoth, chief executive and accounting officer of EASTECO in Kigali, Rwanda, addressed the experiences on the ongoing Open Science stakeholder engagement in Africa, not forgetting what necessitated the inclusion of Open Science in the regional STI policy. He also highlighted the challenges that have been undertaken while addressing open science in East Africa partner states.

“We at the regional level are in support of this not blindly because its our duty to direct its our duty to guide” he said.

Dr Sylvance Okoth, chief executive and accounting officer of EASTECO in Kigali, Rwanda.

UNESCO defines open science as an inclusive construct that combines various movements and practices aiming to make full multilingual scientific knowledge openly available, accessible and reusable for everyone to increase scientific collaborations and sharing information for the benefit of science and society, and open the process of scientific knowledge, creation evaluation and communicate to societal actors beyond the traditional scientific community.

In Kenya, the Kenya Libraries and Information Services Consortium (KLISC) has been a proponent of the open science initiative. KLISC has championed open science adoption by spearheading the development of institutional repositories in 38 member institutions.

These repositories serve as platforms for making research outputs openly accessible. KLISC also supports member institutions in establishing and registering open-access journals through the Open Journal Systems (OJS) Platform.

Dr. Peninah Musangi, Head Librarian at Amref International University and Treasurer at KLISC, highlighted the consortium’s efforts, stating, “We conducted training sessions in five regions of Kenya, where member institutions were invited to learn about the OJS platform. Several institutions have successfully established and registered their journals as a result of this initiative.”

Dr. David Muthaka, Deputy Commission Secretary for Planning, Research, and Innovation at the Commission for University Education, emphasized the challenges faced and the role of universities in advancing the open science mandate. He stressed the importance of fostering collaboration and partnerships between universities and research institutions to promote open science and data practices while addressing the challenges associated with implementing open science mandates in universities.

Roheena Anand, Executive Director for Global Publishing Development at Public Library of Science (PLOS), discussed the benefits of open science for research, researchers, and institutions. She underlined the transformative potential of open science in facilitating broader and more equitable access to scientific knowledge.

But why open science? Prof. Joseph Muliaro Wafula, Chair of the Committee on Data for Science and Technology (CODATA) Kenya, offered insights into the rationale behind open science. He explained that open science allows others to build upon and expand prior work without duplicating efforts. Prof. Wafula also emphasized the need to revitalize citizen science, a crucial component of open science. He stressed the role of media in making citizen science accessible to people in various languages, including vernacular languages, to ensure wider participation and engagement. “We aim to reintroduce citizen science and invite people to join us in understanding, scrutinizing, and applying open science concepts,” he noted.

During the panel discussion, the challenges hindering Kenya’s adoption of open science policies were addressed. These challenges included issues related to legal and regulatory frameworks, awareness gaps, ethical and privacy concerns, and the importance of keeping platforms updated with current content.

The collective efforts of stakeholders in Kenya’s academic and research community, along with strategic initiatives and collaborations, aim to overcome these challenges and promote open science practices for the benefit of all.

Prof. Stephen Kiama, Vice Chancellor University of Nairobi.

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With no explicit explanation after the statement. My mother was not the only parent who shied away from talking about sex. This is common everywhere mostly in African homes.

It still baffles me why our parents shunned away from having the “Sex” conversation with us. As we child entered puberty, we begun to notice certain body changes. It was important that our created an environment whereby we could feel free to discuss this with them.

If our parents addressed sex with their kids, it would have been important since they would have passed across the right information. A child’s first knowledge about sex should come from their parents. Parents should not leave sex and sexuality for schools to educate their kids.

What a child knows at school, from peers, and from social media is likely to be unreliable or misleading. It can also be disturbing or even harmful. Adolescent sexual decision making and behavior are influenced by myriad factors at the individual level as well as peer, family, community and societal levels.

Parents in particular play a substantial role in the gender and sexual socialization of their children As our parents ignored the existence of sex and mostly avoided the conversation and termed is as taboo. We did get the information from other illicit sources that ended resulting to a lot of misfortunes.

I believe that the increase of unplanned pregnancies and young mothers was as a result of our parents avoiding sex education. My age mates are considered mobile natives. 92% of centennials access the internet and they get a whole load of information. The media has not failed in presenting them with sexuality and nudity in the most dramatic and shallow way.

People my age are having sex earlier and living home later. Experimenting with sex happened long time ago alongside learning to be responsible about other things like rent, kids, fees.

Back then sex, adulthood and independence happened simultaneously. Now we are having kids while still living on our parents pocket money. Sitting on phone all day and competing with our peers on tik tok while using our parents WIFI.

Today’s generation are fixated on the “Hook Up” culture, peer pressure to engage in sexual behavior, drugs, alcohol and the frequency of engaging in condomless sex with multiple sexual partners because social media says so. Social media has taken over from traditional guidance. It’s no wonder there’s a rise in young mothers with such a poor teacher.

These will definitely find one on the negative consequences for their actions. One of the consequences of sex is conception. Resulting to young mothers unmindful of what taking care of a baby entails. The lack of guidance also places young women at risk of other precarious outcomes.

My generation, Gen Z – see parenthood as restrictive, inconvenient, and somewhat irrational. Many view not getting pregnant in your early 20s as a life achievement.

Aren’t most of us prioritizing our education and employment, but living more fun and frivolous lives. There’s certainly been a palpable shift in the way young women think about motherhood. Motherhood was once viewed as inextricably difficult but ultimately rewarding, is now passé- even a little puzzling.

The middle aged and older people are out here having heaps of sex and they love it, its there thing. They’re certain at this point that sex won’t result to anymore kids.

Centennials are getting into motherhood clueless. Babies come with a lot of responsibility and it does not only spoil the fun but it comes with a whole load of unnecessary discomfort. I am not against children; I fear the thought of becoming a young mother.

I know motherhood is inevitable. Yes. Considering my generation is conditioned to think that life should always be carefree and they are accustomed to comfort than the millennial throughout history.

The church is there to give guidance and encourage you to follow the way of Christ, become a commendable member of the society with praiseworthy character. Your parent is there to make sure that you implement whatever the church says. Our parents viewed sex as a taboo subject and the family’s reputation and status was paramount.

When Liz came home and told her church going mother that she was pregnant she was judged, she felt embarrassed and disappointed of her own daughter. Guilt became the young lady’s habitual shadow. It was nasty, as she drowned herself into depression as her own mother made her feel like the worst sinner.

The church is the hope of the world its time we made it the first place a young woman ought to run to when she has found out that she is pregnant instead of away because of shame and guilt. The church ought to stop being loud on what they’re against and become famous for the love of Christ they preach.

Dear parents refusing to talk about sex with your children will not stop them from engaging in sexual activity. The tempting unknown can also act as a trigger for misinformed and unsafe exploration.

It is better to be close to your children and talk to them often. Sex education does not encourage promiscuity but it creates an avenue for you to instill family morals.

If your daughter comes home pregnant, stop judging her and asking yourself questions like What will God think of me? I’m I enough for my children? I’m I good mother? You haven’t failed in any way.

Take her, help be there for her and definitely give her the love she needs from a parent. Sex education is not shameful. Its a conversation parents should be ready to address.

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The University of Nairobi and Oracle Academy collaborated to hold a training on Wednesday, March 29, with the title SKILLS FOR TRAINING course ON ORACLE PRIMAVERA P6 FOR CONSTRUCTION AND ENGINEERING PROJECT MANAGEMENT. The training was held in honor of UNESCO World Engineering Month for Sustainable Development 2023, with the theme Engineering Innovation for a more resilient World.

This workshop was conducted in collaboration with the University of Nairobi Faculty of Built Environment and Design, Construction and Real Estate Student Association (CRESA), and Oracle Academy, a long-time partner of the University of Nairobi.

The workshop’s main objective was to improve skill development and raise knowledge of the effectiveness and cost-effective advantages of the Oracle software by instructing construction and engineering students on how to use Oracle Primavera P6 for project management.

Oracle Kenya Country Leader David Bunei and Nairobi University Vice Chancellor Prof. Stephen Kiama attended the event. They both delivered major addresses on Harnessing the Power of Innovation and Digital Transformation in the Construction Industry.

“No one can achieve greatness alone, which is why this partnership between Oracle and Nairobi University is important,” Mr. Bunei said during his speech.

Oracle Kenya Country Leader David Bunei giving a speech at the Workshop in Nairobi University. Photo/Courtesy

As a firm believer in teamwork, he urged everyone to appreciate how an extra hand brings out the best in everyone. “We’re leveraging our key strengths to bring out the best in each other,” he insisted.

Prof. Stephen Kiama expressed gratitude for the Oracle Academy cooperation as well as the Primavera P6 tools during his speech. “The Oracle Primavera Skills Workshop for Construction and Engineering Project Management is critical in developing capacities for construction and engineering students to gain skills and knowledge on project management efficiency and cost effectiveness.”

Prof. Stephen Kiama the Vice Chancellor of University of Nairobi giving a speech at the event. Photo/Courtesy

Oracle Academy Director Danny Gooris welcomed everyone, including those who had participated virtually and in person.

Regional Manager East Africa Christopher Muthere, Principal Technology solution Engineer, Marion Karanja spoke at the event and also participated in the panel discussions.

Miss Karanja discussed her college experience as a female engineer and the challenges she faced in this male-dominated profession. She urged both men and women to never doubt their problem-solving skills. Miss Karanja stated that her biggest issue in college was self-doubt. She emphasized that no one should be afraid to seek assistance from their professors or advisors, and that information should be shared in order to advance.

Darko Jurekovic, Program Manager at the Croatian Oracle Academy, assisted with the Primavera P6 software training. He demonstrated the software to the students and teachers, explaining its importance in construction and real estate, how to use it, and how Oracle offers it for free. Oracle Primavera P6 is a powerful project management tool used by businesses to handle projects, programs, and portfolios.

Its primary purpose is to help project managers and teams effectively plan, schedule, and control their projects, ensuring that they are completed on time, within budget, and to the desired level of quality.

The software assists in the resolution of specific problems such as project planning, resource management, cost control, and risk management. It also allows project team members to effectively cooperate, share information and updates, and communicate progress in real-time.

Students during the Oracle Primavera P6 training. Photo/Courtesy

Primavera P6 includes powerful reporting and analytics capabilities, allowing project managers to create customized reports and dashboards to track progress, identify patterns, and make data-driven decisions.

Because it is an essential tool for project management, students should be familiar with the Oracle Primavera P6 software. It helps with project management, resource management, risk management, cost management, collaboration, and communication.

According to Tom Oketch, a lecturer in Quantity Survey and Construction Management at the University of Nairobi, the Oracle Primavera P6 is important because it provides students with a wide range of opportunities. “A lot of construction projects use software,” he continues. “Learning it puts a student in a better position to understand more elements,” he says, adding that he expects Oracle Academy to push for the inclusion of Oracle P6 software in the curriculum and classroom instruction.

Architect Peter Njeru, head of the University of Nairobi’s school of real estate and construction management, is grateful for the exposure the students have received as a result of Oracle P6 training, claiming that the software is more advanced than what they are taught in class. “The market has complex and diverse projects,” he says, hoping that the training will equip students with the skills needed to handle the challenges they will face.

According to Antony Muoki, the president of CRESA and a student at the University of Nairobi studying quantity survey and construction management, the decision to partner with Oracle Academy was made because the organization noticed that many engineering and construction professionals lacked the necessary technological skills after completing their education. He goes on to state that the students needed the training to be ready for the workforce. He plans to extend his collaboration with Oracle Academy.

CRESA president Anthony Muoki with Martin Omondi Ochieng’ the Governor of CRESA. Photo/Courtesy

Mathew Mutero, a Technical University of Kenya student majoring in Construction Management, expressed gratitude to Oracle for the skills workshop, stating that the software will be crucial in shaping his future path. “It’s not just about having a project and planning for it; you have to consider all dimensions,” he says, adding that the software is useful not only for students studying real estate, construction management, and quantity surveying, but also for contractors and business owners. He continues by claiming that Primavera P6 will create better professionals and reduce the number of construction collisions.

Before the training, Benard Mwangi, a student at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, claims he was already using the Oracle P6 software. He adds that he has been researching it on YouTube for the past four months. He appreciates the exposure and experience he has gained and advises students to the training the training seriously because the Software is essential for success in the outside world.

Lorna Juma, program manager at Oracle Academy, expressed gratitude to everyone who helped make the event a success by joining the workshop. “Working with universities is something Oracle believes is critical to attracting top talent, utilizing cutting-edge research, developing curricula, supporting community outreach, and raising brand awareness,” she explained why Oracle’s partnership with universities is important. “We will continue these partnerships in order for Oracle to maintain its market competitiveness, encourage creativity, and support the growth of the technology sector.”

This event was held to celebrate engineering with the future workforce.

CRESA student leader, David Bunei, Lorna Juma, Christopher Mathenge and Kevin Kabuye during the event. Photo/Courtesy

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Faki expressed profound concern in an AU statement about the violence that resulted in the loss of life, property damage, and disruption of certain economic activities in Nairobi and other cities across the country where supporters of the opposition Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition, led by Raila Odinga, were protesting.

The AU Chairperson, also reaffirmed his support for President William Ruto’s administration, the Kenyan people, and their efforts to promote national unity, peace, and security in the country.

AU statement

“In this regard, the Chairperson wishes to recall the successful conduct of General Elections in August 2022 in Kenya and the subsequent unanimous confirmation of the election outcome by the Supreme Court.” According to the statement.

Mr Odinga supporters took to the streets for the second week in a row to protest the high cost of living and what they claim is the inherent opacity of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, which Mr Odinga accuses of rigging last year’s presidential election in favor of eventual winner William Ruto. The Supreme Court, on the other hand, confirmed Dr. Ruto’s victory in September, dismissing Odinga’s evidence as “hot air.”

Odinga, on the other hand, has claimed that new evidence shows he was rigged out and has requested that the Commission open up their servers.

On Monday, police used tear gas canisters to disperse crowds in Nairobi and Kisumu, both Odinga strongholds, and aimed them at cars carrying journalists in Nairobi.

Officers also used tear gas and water cannons as Odinga’s motorcade passing through Kawangware, a densely populated Nairobi area, sending residents running for cover.

One man was shot dead, according to the director of Kisumu’s main hospital, the second fatality recorded since the protests started the previous Monday, when a Maseno university student was killed by police fire.

Protesters had disregarded Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome’s caution that the demonstrations were “illegal.”

Hundreds of looters descended on former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s sprawling Nairobi estate, stealing sheep and cutting down trees before torching a section of the property.

Kenyatta backed Odinga’s presidential bid in August last year after falling out with his former deputy Ruto.

Gangs also attacked Odinga’s gas company, Spectre International Ltd., in Nairobi.

On Tuesday early, the Al-Aksa mosque and the Presbyterian Church in Kibera, a stronghold for Kenya’s opposition, were burned down.

Police verified the incident, saying that investigations are underway to identify those responsible for the arson.

Locals stared helplessly as flames engulfed the mosque and the church, according to witnesses.

According to Muturi Mbogo, the Kilimani police chief, there were no documented deaths as a consequence of the unrest that sparked the fires.

Religious leaders from the Christian, Hindu, and Muslim groups spoke to reporters, expressing astonishment and dismay at the mosque and church’s destruction and calling for calm and peaceful coexistence between the two communities.

“The Presbyterian Church was razed to the ground by unknown people,” Hassan Ole Nado, Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims, told reporters. “The mosque was also set on fire by arsonists, which we condemn unequivocally.” Political interests, according to religious leaders, were to blame for the loss and devastation.

“We are calling for dialogue between President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga,” said Archbishop Martin Kivuva of the Catholic Church. According to Koome, two police cars were destroyed in the chaos, and 23 officers were injured.

“Our investigation into the destruction and injuries caused has begun,” he said in a statement. “Those found culpable will face the law.”

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission, a peace-building body established in the aftermath of the 2007-2008 post-election clashes that killed over 1,100 people, also urged dialogue “as a means of moving our country forward.”

“The wanton destruction of cars, mosques, churches etc is not acceptable and is hereby condemned in the harshest terms possible,” commission chairman Samuel Kobia said in a statement on Tuesday.

Human rights activists have also expressed concern about the country’s increase in politically motivated violence, including police brutality and threats to free speech and assembly.

The incident in Kibera comes after allegations of sponsored violence, a recurring problem in Kenya’s political landscape.

Politicians have been accused of using youth organizations to create chaos and violence at political events such as protests and rallies.

Kenyans, who are already dealing with skyrocketing inflation and an employment crisis, are concerned about the violence.

Many Kenyans are struggling to place food on the table, owing to rising food prices, a depreciating local currency, and a record drought that has left millions hungry.

During the campaign, Ruto portrayed himself as a champion of the oppressed and promised to better the lives of ordinary Kenyans.

However, he has since removed subsidies for gasoline and maize flour, both of which are dietary staples.

And, despite Ruto’s assurances in January, Kenya’s energy regulatory body declared last week that electricity prices would rise beginning next month.

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However, research has revealed that there are only a small number of institutions or professionals who can provide the most recent expertise, knowledge, and creative solutions to the world’s newest challenges. This is why Oracle Academy, in partnership with the Global Peace Foundation Kenya, had the honor of hosting the inaugural training on the computer boot camp for revolutionizing education for Kenyan tertiary instructors at Zetech University.

The program, Transforming Education Bootcamp for Kenyan Tertiary Educators, drew more than 50 academics who participated in person and 93 more who attended remotely from various universities.

In addition to offering training courses for tertiary educators, the Global Peace Foundation Kenya has been actively advocating peacebuilding and conflict resolution projects across the globe. Mr. Daniel Juma Omondi, the executive director of the Global Peace Foundation Kenya, said during the occasion that his organization promotes peace through education and that it works closely with educators and stakeholders while utilizing cutting-edge technology to capture what is crucial.

Daniel Juma Omondi Executive Director Global Peace Foundation with Dean, School of ICT, Media and Engineering Dr.-Ing Wilfred G. Gikaru at Oracle Academy Computing Bootcamp at Zetech University. Photo/Courtesy

“I believe that if we can educate our people, we will be able to focus on what is important and stop fighting over trivial matters.” Then we’ll do a lot,” he added.

Additionally, Mr. Juma urged the young people present to pursue careers in data analytics, web design, and data science in order to arm themselves with the knowledge and abilities needed to survive in the modern world, noting that the technology sector is lucrative and offers many benefits due to the high salaries of those who work in it.

The Foundation’s training program for higher education professionals strives to provide them with the information and abilities required to foster social cohesion, understanding, and peace in their local communities.

Danny Gooris, Director of Oracle Academy, also participated remotely. He expressed his appreciation for their assistance in making the event possible, and he commended Zetech University’s board of directors as well as the entire faculty. The Oracle Academy cloud computing program was then introduced, and the speaker gave some useful information about it while emphasizing the importance of “Oracle Cloud infrastructure to everyone.” Cloud programming should be taught to students because it is becoming increasingly vital in today’s technologically savvy culture. Cloud computing allows individuals and companies to store and access data and applications via the internet rather than local servers or personal computers.”

Oracle Academy’s cloud computing program is widely recognized as comprehensive and up-to-date.

Students who are interested in pursuing careers in computer science, software engineering, or other technology-related industries need to have a strong grasp of cloud programming. They will be better prepared to design, develop, and implement cloud-based services and apps that cater to the requirements of today’s businesses and consumers by honing these skills.

Dr. Ing. Wilfred G. Gikaru, dean of Zetech University’s School of ICT, Media, and Engineering, greeted everyone warmly. He also expressed his excitement about attending the event as a teacher and how everyone might benefit from understanding machine learning and data analytics.

Dr.-Ing Wilfred G. Gikaru, Dean, School of ICT, Media and Engineering speaking during the Oracle Computing Bootcamp at Zetech University. Photo/Courtesy

Using the potent Oracle Analytics tool, this year’s theme was “Data Analytics & Machine Learning for Educators.” To stay up with the changing demands of their pupils and to improve their teaching methods, educators in the modern digital age need to become more proficient in data analytics and machine learning.

“This workshop was designed to give educators a comprehensive understanding of data analytics and machine learning concepts, as well as hands-on experience using Oracle Analytics to analyze and interpret education-related data,” explains Lorna Juma, Oracle Academy Program Manager.

Oracle Academy computing bootcamps have had an impact on educators over the years by equipping them with the most up-to-date technologies and best practices. According to Miss Lorna Juma, the annual teachers bootcamps benefit educators by providing a platform for Oracle Academy member instructors to stay current with the latest technology. She continues, “Each year, we collaborate with our institutional members, as we did this year with Zetech University to organize this year’s Knowledge Builder event.”

Lorna Juma Oracle Academy Programe Manager speaking at the event. Photo/Courtesy

Oracle Academy conducts a training needs assessment and creates a report based on the results. Samuel Kinuthia Kariuki describes how crucial data analytics is influencing the education sector and the effects of machine learning in education. He is a lecturer at Zetech University and a faculty member in the ICT, Media and Engineering department. He says “Oracle Academy resources and Zetech University collaborate to make machine learning simpler for teachers and students alike” Examples of practical machine learning applications, like fraud detection and recommendation systems, are provided in the Oracle Academy program.

These illustrations aid students in comprehending the usefulness of machine learning in solving problems in the real world. Mr. Kinuthia adds that “Using data analytics, teachers can design learning paths that are specific to each student’s abilities, interests, and learning preferences. Due to this, pupils can study at their own pace”

Grace Leah Okundi, a lecturer at Technical University of Kenya, was thrilled with the bootcamp’s outcome and expressed gratitude for Oracle Academy’s efforts, saying that the tools provided had made machine learning and data analytics simple to understand. The bootcamp helped her research on artificial intelligence, which she is currently conducting at University of Nairobi. “My students and I are extremely appreciative of this, and I would like to encourage lecturers to attend such trainings because they have such a significant impact.”

mugandamaryann@gmail.com

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To mark the International Women’s Day 2023, themed Innovation and technology for gender equality, Oracle academy in collaboration with African Summit on Entrepreneurship and Innovation-ASENTI and Riara university held an event to bring together women in Tech in Kenya.

The forum sought to tackle questions and stereotypical ideas of women in tech and the strides they have made to become successful women in the industry.

The women were also educated on key aspects that the company gives priority as a way of promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education and technology for women in the sector.

March 8th has been earmarked as the day which acts as a focal point in the women’s rights movements bringing attention to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, violence and abuse against women.

This day which was commemorated under the theme DigitALL; Innovation and Technology for gender equality highlighted the role of innovative technology in promoting gender equality and meeting health and developmental needs of women and girls.

A common observation among the panel was the gap between men and women in the highly dominated field. According to the Global gender gap report 2020 published by World economic forum, it will take around 100 years for the world to reach gander parity.

Cloud Platform Senior Account Manager Lorna Misoi of Oracle Academy thanked men for being instrumental in promoting equity in the society adding the main goal of the academy is to reduce the gender gap and recruit more females in the tech world.

The Global Peace Foundation Kenya under the invitation of Oracle Academy at Riara University to celebrate International Women’s day 2023.

“Women ought to start fighting for these spaces even though the gap is tremendously closing up” she added.

One of the main reasons women leave the tech industry is the gender stereotype that it is a masculine profession. For a while now this stereotype is ingrained by the society everywhere. Many women have been discouraged from studying computer science and engineering courses. Even when women enrol in tech-related courses, many do not consider pursuing a career in IT.

Studies have shown that diversity in companies is important. The multiple perspectives of a diverse team are key to innovation. Commercial Director for Technology at Oracle Academy Christine Ambektsa added that women’s perspective is needed since products are not sold to men only. Also, women teammates may bring in a different culture and work atmosphere that can boost team morale.

The challenge for women in the tech world however, is dealing with macho and misogynist culture within the industry.

Speakers also noted that women and men have distinctive communication styles, which means the workplace must be committed to mutual learning and listening to each other.

Another challenge commonly faced by women is the work-family balance due to the high pressure and heavy workload of some technical positions. But Oracle Academic programme manager Lorna Juma pointed out that this is a major challenge for both women and men. “There are dedicated fathers who are struggling to balance work and family despite co-parenting”.

Lorna Juma urged women to believe in themselves: acknowledging the steps they have made to join the tech world not forgetting the many challenges. Juma also added that many efforts have been put to ensure women continue to advance in careers and uplift each other.

Riara University being an oracle Academy member has made great strides in championing innovation and giving opportunities to young girls and women to take lead.

Sheryl Mboya , a Kenyan youth, an innovator, a computer science scholar and a legal scholar at Riara University prides of the increase of young women in the male dominated field. “I am proud of the many young females who are now owning spaces in the digital world, facing challenges and addressing them head on”

Sheryl says that the IT space is no longer a male owned department as perceived before “More Women need to venture into the industry and take a seat on the table”

“As long as you have the passion and the drive the technology world is everybody’s space” she urged.

Oracle academy has put in place in various countries to democratize girls’ technology education and support them in career development. The institution has set aside girl child programmes and increased female participation in tech industries women businesses. They have provisions of first-hand experience to females who would want to venture into the tech-based organizations and companies.

Oracle Academy resources are open to provide women across the country with stable and advanced knowledge on how to fight for their rights and fit in the competitive world of technology.

The Global peace foundation Kenya works closely with Oracle Academy in training educators on computing skills and ICT integration in teaching and learning.

From the earliest days of computing to the present age of virtual reality and artificial intelligence, women have made untold contributions to the digital world in which we increasingly live. Their accomplishments have been against all odds, in a field that has historically neither welcomed nor appreciated them.

Today, a persistent gender gap in digital access keeps women from unlocking technology’s full potential. Their underrepresentation in STEM education and careers remains a major barrier to their participation in tech design and governance. And the pervasive threat of online gender-based violence—coupled with a lack of legal recourse—too often forces them out of the digital spaces they do occupy.

This annual event explored the impact of gender gaps in the 21st century that continues to create inequality and economic imbalance.

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“Tigray has handed over its heavy weapons as part of its commitment to implementing the #Pretoria agreement” that was signed between Ethiopia’s government and Tigrayan rebels, Tigray People’s Liberation Front spokesperson Getachew Reda tweeted Wednesday.

“We hope & expect this will go a long way in expediting the full implementation of the agreement. We hope & expect!”

The move is a central part of the 12 November 2022 ceasefire agreement which seeks to end conflict that killed thousands of people and misplaced millions, alongside the restoration of services. It also includes the resumption of humanitarian aid and withdrawal of Eritrean Troops, who fought alongside Ethiopia’s army but were party to the truce.

At the handover ceremony, Tigray Defence Forces (TDF) representative Mulugeta Gebrechristos said the start of the disarmament would play a major role in restoring peace.

“We are operating with the belief that if we are to have peace, all things that open the door for provocation must not be there. Peace is vital for us all,” Mulugeta said in a speech broadcast on the local Tigrai TV.

“We are all [part of] one Ethiopia. Both us and the TDF have moved from our respective defensive positions in peace, understanding and love,” Aleme Tadesse, a representative of the Ethiopian army, said.

The decision for Eritrea to leave Tigray was reached after a delegation of Ethiopian government officials for the first time toured Mekelle on 29 November 2022, the capital of Tigray since the signing of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA).

An Ethiopian official confirmed under condition of anonymity that Eritrean soldiers had withdrawn from Axum and Shire

Dozens of trucks carrying Eritrean soldiers left Axum and Shire cities heading towards the border of Eritrea on 31 Thursday 2022. Three aid workers in Axum and Shire also confirmed witnessing several trucks and dozens of cars packed with Eritrean soldiers on Thursday leaving towards the border town of Sheraro.

The withdrawal followed the November 2, 2022 peace agreement that was signed by both Ethiopia’s federal government and Tigray Regional party, Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). Which consisted of various provisions including permanent cessation of hostilities and the removal of foreign troops and non-federal forces from Tigray.

An Ethiopian government delegation, including the prime minister’s national security adviser Redwan Hussein and several ministers, visited Tigray’s capital Mekelle on 26 December, marking a major step in the peace process.

A few days later, on 29 December, mediators of the Ethiopian Tigray peace deal, led by former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta and the former President of Nigeria Olesegun Obasanjo and other African Union negotiators met in Ethiopia to evaluate the Pretoria agreement that was signed on 2 November.

According to an Ethiopian government statement, the delegation visited the Tigrayan capital Mekelle to supervise the implementation of major issues in the peace agreement signed on November 2.

The Tigrayan spokesman Getachew Reda on twitter described the visit as a milestone in the peace agreement saying that the discussions held were fruitful and important understanding was reached.

The 2-year war that raged in all four regions of Ethiopia started when Abiy Ahmed deployed the army to arrest Tigrayan leaders who had been challenging his authority for months and whom he accused of attacking federal military bases.

The fighting has stopped since November’s peace deal, the rebels claiming to have disengaged 65 percent of their fighters from the front lines.

But Tigrayans have denounced the atrocities they say have been committed by Eritrea’s army and the forces of Ethiopia’s neighboring Amhara region, which have supported the federal army in the conflict.

Tigrayan authorities, as well as residents and aid workers who spoke to the AFP news agency, accuse them of looting, rape, executions and abductions of civilians.

With access to Tigray restricted, it is impossible to independently verify the situation on the ground, including the presence of Eritrean forces.

Humanitarian operations have been ramped up since the peace deal, but the amount of food and medical aid being delivered remains far below the enormous needs.

Mekelle was connected to the national power grid on December 6.

Ethiopia’s main bank CBE said on December 19 that it was resuming operations in some towns, and telephone communications with the region have begun to be restored.

The war has displaced more than two million Ethiopians and left more than 13.6 million people dependent on humanitarian aid in northern Ethiopia, the UN said.

It also, according to the UN, plunged hundreds of thousands of people into near-famine conditions.

The two-year war did not only destroy lives and properties but families and relationships and the trust of the people within and outside the country that will take years to recover.

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It is a major source of inequality in Kenya today. It has a profound social and economic impact on families’ communities and the entire nation as well as serious ramifications on national security.

71% of women in this country have reported having experienced physical or sexual violence from their husbands or partners in their life. At Least 10 women with the number rising daily. The perpetrators being youthful males of 18 to 33 years old. Both men and women experience gender based violence but the majority of victims are women and girls.

Much have been written and said on the imperative of intersectionality within the fight for women’s equality and in efforts to end gender based violence.

Just at 16, Pauline was raped by a gang and at 19 suffered domestic violence after an early marriage. Instead of cooing in deep depression, she looked for a way to help women who were going through similar situations. 

The mother of two started a community based organization after experiencing 4 years of physical and sexual abuse from her partner.

“As a survivor of sexual and domestic violence as a teenager. I have always wanted a space to be myself to dream without limits and support from a community that understood me”. She said. 

Pauline Juma started Rebirth of a Queen an NGO focusing on GBV survivors in 2017, at the time her focus was on survivors. The community based organization aims at helping women who suffer domestic violence, rape and other situations that are forms of GBV. It was started to empower, mentor survivors of GBV to live a trauma free and empowered life. The Organization begun with a small shelter which was initially my house in Kibera before it was moved to Kajiado County. The numbers kept increasing as 1 in 4 women experience physical or sexual abuse in Kibera. 

She runs the shelter surviving on fundraising and donors and when it comes to sanitary towels and diaper for the kids she does a fundraising. 

“The cases increase everyday and this makes it hard to cater for everyone and run the shelter as the number of victims increases daily too. Every day we receive a case or two for the rescue. We specifically deal with rescuing survivors, sheltering and empowering them.” Running a shelter is a frustrating affair apart from carrying the weight of survivors’ trauma of the proprietors shoulders funding is a constant headache. 

“I work so hard for it, as I am forced to do 4 jobs to keep the safe house running. There are days we try fundraising, some days we get well wishers as it’s always on me”. She narrates with acrimony. 

“At the moment I have 21 people at the safe house 15 of them are above 13 years, 6 out of the 15 are children and 6 are children below 10 years.” 

Most GBV cases are never reported, according to the founder of Rebirth of A queen, before getting justice in this country, one goes through a long process especially for survivors of Gender Based Violence.

“Sometimes I feel it’s all a scam, going round and round at the court until you give up. Out of 15 cases we have reported, none of them has borne any fruits. A 4 year old survivor of defilement is the latest case I am working on. The perpetrator is an 18 year old who was released on bond.” 

At Rebirth of a Queen women can stay for 9 months at most while undergoing counseling and medical treatment. “Those over 18 years stay for 9 months. I Rescue, shelter, empower, take them through therapy and eventually reintegrate them back to the society.” She continues.

Most shelters target women and children exclusively, as she is yet to open a safe house for boys before the year ends. Despite having financial challenges, the organization also faces threats from perpetrators who feel that the existence of Rebirth of a Queen poses as risk to their freedom.

Pauline Juma has worked hard to fight for women and children lives from the hands of perpetrators, looking back from where she started she says she is happy that she has made many steps forward though she feels she ought to do more. She calls for each Kenyan to help in the fight for GBV.

 “It is a journey that needs all hands on deck. It takes blood, sweat, tears and sleepless nights to get where I am today, to handle GBV we need to start with poverty because those living in under privileged areas are prone to violation as they are seen vulnerable and no one cares about them” She adds.

She feels that Kenyans are in a comfort zone when it comes to fighting GBV and it breaks her heart that femicide has taken root in this country and its saddening that Sheila Lumumba was killed and the fact that there’s no progress in the case is more sickening and shows how slow and unconcerned our justice system is when it comes to search cases. It clearly shows how we as a country value non-binary people and women. 

“We young women are on our own and it is our responsibility to provide security for ourselves, it’s up to us to speak against GBV as it seems no one is coming to rescue us. It is hurting and scary but we have to rise everyday and advocate against violence on women.” Pauline urges women.

Community activists like Pauline who foster survivors should be equipped with the skills and tools, including financial support to provide these services. The government should work together with the grass root movements to strengthen the work done on GBV. The government should also strengthen the justice system every individual should rise and be the change needed to see.

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