Huawei Kenya marked the International Day for Women and Girls in Science (IDWGIS) with a dynamic UniTech Talk, an event aimed at fostering inclusivity and advancing women’s participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The forum brought together students, industry leaders, policymakers, and advocates to discuss opportunities, challenges, and strategies for increasing meaningful inclusion in STEM-related fields.
Championing Women’s Participation in STEM
The event underscored the need for mentorship, policy support, and industry collaboration to bridge gender gaps in STEM. Discussions centered around gender stereotypes, career advancement, and the need for strategic partnerships to create more pathways for women in STEM-based professions.
National Youth Council CEO Gloria Wawira encouraged young girls to embrace STEM, noting that science and technology offer limitless opportunities in fields like artificial intelligence, robotics, environmental sustainability, medicine, and data science. She emphasized breaking gender biases and strengthening mentorship to enable women to thrive.
“The world of science and technology is expanding rapidly, presenting endless career paths for women. Whether in AI, robotics, medicine, or data analysis—there is a place for every interest and strength. Women must embrace STEM, not just as participants but as creators of the future.” – Gloria Wawira, CEO, National Youth Council
Government’s Call for Accelerated Inclusion
President’s Advisor on Women’s Rights Hon. Harriet Chiggai emphasized the role of public-private partnerships in accelerating women’s inclusion in STEM. She urged young women to seize opportunities in STEM and contribute innovative solutions to modern challenges.
“Digital skills are more critical than ever. Women bring diverse perspectives and innovative solutions that enrich science and technology. You are the architects of the future—step forward with confidence, challenge norms, and break barriers.” – Hon. Harriet Chiggai
Huawei’s Commitment to Women in STEM
Huawei Technologies CFO Maggie Gao Junhui reaffirmed the company’s dedication to increasing women’s participation in STEM through initiatives like:
- Seeds for the Future & Women in Tech (WIT): Mentorship and leadership development programs for young women.
- DigiSchool (in partnership with UNESCO): Providing schools with internet access and computer equipment to encourage early STEM engagement.
- Huawei ICT Competition & DigiTruck: Skill-building and career advancement platforms for students.
- University Career Fairs: Connecting young women with industry experts for career guidance.
This year’s Huawei ICT Competition saw nearly 3,000 student participants, with 960 (32%) being female. Five young women have advanced to the Regional Finals in South Africa in March 2025.
Maggie emphasized that women’s participation in STEM is not just a compliance goal but a strategic imperative for innovation and growth.
“Diversity is not just a clause—it is a key driver of success. Through partnerships with universities and corporations, we aim to onboard more women into STEM, ensuring a brighter future for all.” – Maggie Gao Junhui, CFO, Huawei Technologies Kenya
The Future of Women in STEM
The UniTech Talk forum concluded with a call for continued mentorship, education, and policy interventions to ensure more women thrive in STEM careers.
Hon. Harriet Chiggai reinforced that Kenya’s digital transformation agenda presents equal opportunities for women and girls to enter, innovate, and lead in STEM.
“It is our time to innovate, lead, and break barriers.” – Hon. Harriet Chiggai
Conclusion
Huawei’s Women-In-Tech forum served as a crucial reminder that advancing women in STEM is key to driving innovation and shaping Kenya’s digital future. By fostering mentorship, eliminating gender biases, and strengthening public-private partnerships, Kenya can create a more inclusive and diverse STEM workforce.
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