Kyambogo University Women in Engineering (KYUWE) recently hosted a ground-breaking Mentorship Program aimed at inspiring and empowering female engineering students. Held on 1st November 2024 at CTF 105 auditorium, the event was a resounding success, drawing together industry experts, academicians and aspiring engineers to discuss challenges faced by women in Engineering, share experiences, and explore career pathways in the Engineering field.

KYUWE committee with patron Dr. Charles Onyutha (Middle)
KYUWE committee with patron Dr. Charles Onyutha

The association president Ms. Igoe Jovia Tabitha (Civil and building engineering student) welcomed all invited guests and students, to the first mentorship program and invited the association Patron, Dr. Charles Onyutha to officially open the event and invite the Guest of Honor. 

The Guest of Honor, Dr. Lyoidah Kiconco the Head of Exploration and New Ventures at Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), in her opening remarks warmly welcomed all attendees and extended her appreciation to KYUWE for organising such an empowering event.

She highlighted the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive environment for women in Engineering and encouraged participants to make a positive impact on the world.

Dr. Lyoidah Kiconco Head of Exploration and New Ventures at Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC)
Dr. Lyoidah Kiconco Head of Exploration and New Ventures at Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC)

The day kicked off with a thought-provoking keynote address by Eng. Aboth Yakoba, a renowned civil engineer working with National Water and Sewage Corporation, who shed light on the unique challenges faced by female engineers. Eng. Yakoba emphasized the importance of perseverance, resilience, networking, and continuous learning in overcoming these obstacles. Her inspiring message resonated with the audience, motivating them to strive for excellence and break down barriers.

Eng. Aboth Yakoba, Civil Engineer at National Water and Sewage Corporation (NWSC)
Eng. Aboth Yakoba, Civil Engineer at National Water and Sewage Corporation (NWSC)

PANEL 1 (CURRENT STUDENTS PANEL)

MODERATOR: DR. CATHERINE WANDERA

TOPIC: Navigating campus life successfully as a female engineering student

Following the inspiring keynote address, a series of engaging panel discussions took place. The first panel featured current female engineering students who shared their experiences navigating the campus life. They discussed balancing coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal life, as well as strategies for building strong support networks and overcoming challenges. This panel was moderated by Dr. Catherine Wandera, a Mechanical engineer working with Kyambogo University as well as the Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat. She was very passionate about the well-being of female engineers as they transition from campus life to the field of work.

Ms. Monica Kiconco (BEng: Civil & Building Engineering Year 4), Grace Kevin Namatende (BEng: Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering Year 4), Surprise Rukundoye (BEng: Electrical Engineering Year 4), Dr. Catherine Wandera (moderator), Vanita Ruth Madini (Bsc: Chemical & Process Engineering Year 4) Mary Judith Nankabirwa (BEng: In Architecture Year 3), Ms. Karoline Turihamwe (BEng: Mechatronics & Biomedical Engineering Year 3)
Ms. Monica Kiconco (BEng: Civil & Building Engineering Year 4), Grace Kevin Namatende (BEng: Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering Year 4), Surprise Rukundoye (BEng: Electrical Engineering Year 4), Dr. Catherine Wandera (moderator), Vanita Ruth Madini (Bsc: Chemical & Process Engineering Year 4) Mary Judith Nankabirwa (BEng: In Architecture Year 3), Ms. Karoline Turihamwe (BEng: Mechatronics & Biomedical Engineering Year 3)
Kyambogo University Women in Engineering- Mentorship Program and launch of association
Panel 1 in-session

PANEL 2 (ALUMNI PANEL)

MODERATOR: DR. ANNE NAKAGIRI

TOPIC: Career Pathways and Advancement Opportunities for Engineers in the World of Work

The second panel brought together successful female engineers who have graduated from various Engineering disciplines in Kyambogo University. They offered valuable insights into the job market, career advancement opportunities, and the importance of lifelong learning. They also discussed the challenges faced by women in the engineering industry and strategies for overcoming them. They stressed the fact that the ladies seize every opportunity that comes and always give their best to whatever they lay their hands on. This panel was moderated by Eng. Dr. Anne Nakagiri, a Mechanical engineer and Chairperson- of Research Grants, at Kyambogo University.

Career Pathways and Advancement Opportunities for Engineers in the World of Work
Ms. Zoe Kwagala Elisheba- BEng: Civil and Building Engineering (2017-2022) Building & Infrastructure Engineer Bureau Veritas Uganda Limited, Ms. Elizabeth Ahimbisibwe- BSc: Process & Chemical Engineering (2017-2022) Operations & Compliance Officer Petroleum Authority of Uganda [PAU], Ms. Monica Ahairwebyona- BEng: Architecture (2018-2023) Assistant Architect Arch Design Ltd, Eng. Dr. Anne Nakagiri (moderator), Ms. Catherine Nakayima- BSc: Oil and Gas Production (2021-2024) Graduate Trainee Petroleum Authority of Uganda [PAU], Ms. Bushlar Naleba- BEng: Biomedical Engineering (2018-2023) Field Service Engineer Science Scope Africa Limited, Ms. Kisakye Tabitha- BEng. Industrial Engineering (2014-2017) Mechanical Engineer Uganda Industrial Research Institute.
Engineering students’ participants
Engineering students participants

PANEL 3 (STAKEHOLDERS PANEL)

MODERATOR: MS. WINNIE KASANDE

TOPIC: Skills for Building an Impactful Engineering Career in the Workplace

The third panel featured industry experts who provided perspectives on emerging trends, technological advancements, and ethical considerations in engineering. They discussed the critical role of diversity and inclusion in driving innovation and problem-solving, as well as the importance of mentorship.

Skills for Building an Impactful Engineering Career in the Workplace
Ms. Sarah Nanteza Chemical Engineer/Petroleum Officer- (Refining and Petrochemicals) Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, Ms. Sheila Mugisha Civil Engineer Head of Asset Management-ATC Uganda, Ms. Diana Aziku Civil/ Structural Engineer Engineering Manager- ATC Uganda, Ms. Flavia Kiconco Electrical Engineer- Coca Cola Beverages Uganda, Ms. Priscillar Piwun Apita Electrical Engineer Governance Manager-Uganda Breweries Limited, Ms. Meron Nabaasa Mechanical Engineer-Uganda Industrial Research Institute (UIRI).
Guest participants
Guest participants

This event was an incredible opportunity to connect with like-minded women and gain valuable insights.

One of the highlights of the event was the presentation on scholarships and further study opportunities, by Ms. Josephine Akobo (2016-2021: Bachelor of Engineering in Civil and Building Engineering- Kyambogo University 2022 to 2024: Master of Science in Water Resources Engineering- KU Leuven Belgium Currently, searching for a PhD in hydrology. Lecturing at Kyambogo from 2022 to date). Attendees were provided with information on various programs designed to support female engineers in their academic and professional pursuits.

The closing remarks were given by Ms. Haawa Bukenya, the General Secretary of Women in Energy and Extractives Network (WEEN) and a lawyer with Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), who encouraged ladies to believe in themselves so they can compete for jobs in the engineering field.

Ms. Haawa Bukenya, General Secretary- Women in Energy and Extractives Network (WEEN) and a lawyer with Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC)
Ms. Haawa Bukenya, General Secretary- Women in Energy and Extractives Network (WEEN) and a lawyer with Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC).

The event concluded with a networking session and a photo moment providing attendees with an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and build lasting relationships. The participants left feeling motivated and equipped to excel in their chosen Engineering fields. KYUWE’s commitment to fostering a supportive community for female engineers is a significant step towards breaking down gender barriers and creating a more inclusive future.

Event participants pose for a group photo
Event participants pose for a group photo

Special recognition to our gold sponsor: Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), Silver sponsor: Ministry of Energy & Mineral Development (MEMD) and our partners: Uganda Industrial Research Institute (UIRI), ATC Uganda, Coca Cola Beverages-Uganda and Uganda Breweries Limited.

KYUWE would like to express sincere gratitude to the association patron Dr. Charles Onyutha- Dean Faculty of Engineering, all the speakers, panellists, moderators, attendees and members who contributed to the success of the event spiritually, mentally, physically and financially. May the Almighty God richly reward you.

By Eng. Mercy Kitimbo Asiku

 

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