US Embassy’s 'Girls in ICT Mentorship Session with Oracle Academy empowers female students in STEM

With the aim of fostering gender equality in the field of Information and communication technology (ICT), the US Embassy organized an inspiring mentorship session under the theme ‘Girls in ICT Mentorship Session’.

The event, held on August 11, 2023, brought together young, female minds from four different technical and vocational education institutions (TVETs) in Kenya, creating a dynamic platform for them to interact, learn, and find encouragement in the ever-evolving world of technology. The TVET institutes, which are Oracle Academy Institutional members, included PC Kinyanjui Technical Training Institute, Kabete National Polytechnic, Equip Africa Institute, and Kiambu Institute of Science and Technology.

The ‘Girls in ICT Mentorship Session’ proved to be a platform for empowerment, enlightening participants with insights from accomplished professionals who have shattered glass ceilings in the ICT industry. The event was graced by two distinguished guests:

1. Dr. Kelly Fletcher - Chief Information Officer, Bureau of Information Resource Management

Dr. Kelly Fletcher’s presence at the mentorship session was a testament to the power of determination and hard work. As the Chief Information Officer at the Bureau of Information Resource Management, her journey undoubtedly paved the way for aspiring young women to follow. Dr. Fletcher shared her experiences, challenges, and triumphs, offering a unique glimpse into the reality of leading in a male-dominated industry.

2. Laura Williams – Deputy Chief Information Officer for Foreign Operations, Bureau of Information Resource Management

Laura Williams, the Deputy Chief Information Officer for Foreign Operations at the Bureau of Information Resource Management, added her valuable perspective to the session. With a wealth of experience in navigating the complexities of global technology initiatives, Laura Williams demonstrated that there are no limits to what women can achieve in the ICT landscape.

The US Embassy’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity in the ICT sector was evident through this mentorship session. By bringing together bright young minds from Oracle Academy’s different technical member institutions, the event not only highlighted the immense potential of women in technology but also bridged the gap between academic learning and real-world application. The personal stories, practical advice, and career insights shared by Dr. Kelly Fletcher and Laura Williams left an indelible mark on the attendees, instilling in them a newfound determination to break down barriers and make their mark in the ICT field.

In conclusion, the ‘Girls in ICT Mentorship Session’ demonstrated that with the right guidance, resources, and determination, young women can thrive, hence fostering gender diversity in the technology sector.

After the session, Oracle Academy Program Manager Lorna Juma spoke to the students on the Oracle Academy Career Center resource, which provides a holistic approach to career development in the technology industry. By extending this resource to students, Oracle Academy enables them to explore various career paths and make connections with Oracle Academy curriculum pathways, with the option to explore Oracle professional certifications.

Oracle Academy empowers educators and institutions with the resources they need to teach students the technical skills and knowledge required in today’s digital world.