At Mbarara University of Science & Technology, the future of technology is being reshaped, and women are leading the charge. On 24th March 2026, the Faculty of Computing and Informatics at Kihumuro Campus came alive as students, professionals, and mentors gathered for a dynamic @Gender & ICT Mentorship and Career Guidance Workshop.
Left, right, a group photo taken after the workshop, and feedback from the participant.
Through MUST IUC-UCoBS Subproject 6, the activity was led by Dr. Moreen Kabarungi. The event brought together over 50 participants, all united by a shared vision of making ICT more inclusive, inspiring, and accessible for women.
✔️Breaking Barriers, Building Futures:
The workshop went beyond conversations; it became a space where real challenges were addressed. From gender stereotypes to career uncertainty and confidence gaps, participants openly explored the barriers women face in ICT and, more importantly, how to overcome them.
In a powerful session led by Dr. Jane Katusiime, participants were reminded that women are not just participants in technology; they are innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders shaping the future.
Dr. Jane Katusiime inspiring the women on the need of them being in the tech world
Participants were introduced to exciting career pathways in ICT, including cybersecurity, data science, artificial intelligence, and networking.
Above, Dr. Kimera Richard facilitating the team.
Through practical insights shared by Dr. Richard Kimera, students gained clarity on how to position themselves in a fast-evolving tech landscape.
The message was clear: ICT is full of opportunities, and women belong at the forefront.
✔️ The Power of Mentorship.
At the heart of the workshop were mentorship circles, safe, interactive spaces where students connected directly with female professionals. Here, stories were shared, questions were asked, and confidence was built.
A highlight of the event was the panel discussion, “Thriving as a Woman in ICT,” featuring inspiring voices like Dr. Deborah Natumanya, Ms. Sumaiya Nalukwago, and Ms. Nuura Izath.
Above are the key women tech speakers
Their experiences offered practical advice, encouragement, and real-life lessons on navigating careers in tech.
Beyond the discussions, participants engaged in hands-on learning, networking, and even a practical photography session led by Fortunate T., equipping students with photography and digital storytelling skills.
Participants are being taken through a photography session with a hands-on approach.
By the end of the workshop, something powerful had been built:
– Confidence among young women
– Strong mentorship connections
– A growing network of support
– Renewed ambition to lead in ICT
– Looking Ahead
Thumbs up to MUST IUC-UCoBS Sub Project 6, Rudy Gevaert, Fred Kaggwa, Kelly Casal Mosteiro, VLIRUOS, Ghent University, MUST IUC – UCoBS administration, and all our local and international partners.
