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The African Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Data-Intensive Sciences (ACE-Uganda) has introduced the She-Data Science Program, an innovative effort designed to equip Ugandan women with expertise in data science, artificial intelligence, and bioinformatics.

The initiative was introduced at the ACE Consortium Meeting held in Kampala, an event that gathered directors of ACE centers, international collaborators, and government representatives to assess advancements in digital health innovation and research.

Dr. Aminah Zawedde, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, chaired the event and called the initiative a key component of Uganda’s digital strategy.

“The She-Data Science Program goes beyond skill development; it focuses on making sure women are fully involved in creating the technologies and solutions of the future,” she stated.

The initiative has already supported two women at the doctoral level, five at the master’s level, and numerous individuals in internship positions. Dr. Zawedde praised the participants, referring to them as “pioneers, role models, and trailblazers” who would encourage more women to enter fields of science and technology.

She emphasized the government’s dedication under the Digital Transformation Roadmap (2023-2027), which focuses on innovation, digital competencies, and the involvement of women in information and communication technology. “L

“By integrating digital skills into schools and supporting programs that inspire more girls to enter tech careers, we are building the groundwork for a fair knowledge-based economy,” she stated. She highlighted that investing in women enhances health systems, governance, and the overall economy.

ACE-Uganda, founded in 2019 by the Infectious Diseases Institute at Makerere University in collaboration with the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, has already achieved significant accomplishments.

It has provided training to over 100 graduate students in bioinformatics and data science, designed digital health solutions like the HEAL app for frontline healthcare professionals, developed virtual reality training programs for medical emergencies, and set up a high-performance computing cluster that aids more than 50 research initiatives across Africa.

Dr. Zawedde also praised ACE-Uganda’s global collaborators, such as the Institute for Global Health Sciences at the University of California San Francisco, the ACE Consortium, and the Infectious Diseases Institute.

“Your collaboration is enabling us to create a more inclusive, fair, and competitive future,” she said.

The introduction of the She-Data Science Program highlights Uganda’s dedication to narrowing the gender disparity in the tech field.

By emphasizing women’s empowerment, the nation is establishing itself as a regional center for bioinformatics and technological advancement, while guaranteeing women play a key part in defining Africa’s digital landscape.

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Tagged: ICT and Telecom, Women and Gender, Uganda, Economy, Business and Finance, East Africa

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