Three students from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) have secured a prestigious opportunity to represent Kenya at the Global Huawei Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Competition in Shenzhen, China. The event, scheduled for May 18-25, will bring together top technology talents from around the world to compete in various ICT domains.
The JKUAT team comprises Rukia Mwari Mohammed, who will compete in the Network Track, Ephraim Shikanga, who will tackle the Computing Track, and Banzy Nyaga, who will showcase her expertise in the Cloud Track. Their selection marks a significant achievement for both the university and Kenya’s growing ICT sector.
For third-year Computer Science student Ephraim Shikanga, the competition is a major milestone in his tech journey. He credits Huawei’s rigorous training and hands-on problem-solving approach for enhancing his programming, database management, and processor architecture skills.
Fourth-year Telecommunication and Information Engineering student Rukia Mwari Mohammed had a challenging start in 2023 when she failed to advance past the regional finals. However, instead of being discouraged, she dedicated a year to intensive upskilling, focusing on practical labs and improving her technical expertise. Her perseverance has now earned her a coveted spot on the global stage.
Meanwhile, Banzy Nyaga, a third-year Computer Science student, has excelled in the Cloud Track, earning top recognition in Kenya. Through the competition, she has gained hands-on experience and industry certifications in Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Big Data. She views this achievement as a stepping stone for her career, stating, “Representing Kenya on the global stage is an immense honor, and I’m eager to face the challenges ahead.”
Their journey has been shaped by the mentorship of Phillip Oyier, who emphasized the role of institutions like the JKUAT Huawei ICT Academy in nurturing ICT talent. He commended the students for their dedication since January and expressed confidence in their ability to perform exceptionally well in Shenzhen.
JKUAT’s continued success in global ICT competitions highlights Kenya’s growing reputation in the technology sector, providing students with practical experience, global exposure, and industry recognition. The trio’s participation is not just a personal victory but a proud moment for the university and Kenya at large.
