Blog - @iLabAfrica

12Sep 2024 by @iLabAfrica No Comments

5 Reasons to Invest in Coding for Kids

Did you know that Kautilya Katariya became the world’s youngest computer programmer at age 6 and later founded “The Decipher” to inspire young minds in computing and math? In today’s digital world, coding is not just a technical skill but a gateway to creativity and growth for children. It enhances creativity, logical thinking, and concentration, offering profound benefits. While enrolling your child in a coding program might seem unusual, many professional developers started coding early. According to Stack Overflow’s 2020 survey, over 54% of developers wrote their first code by age 16, and nearly 10% began before their preteens. Research confirms that coding offers numerous advantages for kids, including: Enhances Problem-Solving Skills: Coding requires kids to break down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts and find solutions step-by-step. This problem-solving…

10Sep 2024 by @iLabAfrica No Comments

Cybersecurity Diplomacy: iLabAfrica’s Polish Expedition

Cybersecurity

The team after a morning of meetings and presentations at the eSecure offices In a bold move to bolster Africa’s digital defenses, the iLabAfrica Team embarked on a strategic mission to the heart of Eastern Europe. Poland, renowned for its rich history, technological advancement, and robust cybersecurity ecosystem, became the stage for this pivotal expedition. Led by Dr. Joseph Sevilla- Director @iLabAfrica, Eunice Maingi-Manager IT security (@iLabAfrica ), John Mwangi - Representative of the Polish Kenya Chamber of Commerce, TIMU) and Pat Muthui-CEO of BCK Kenya Ltd (TaiSoc) the delegation traversed the country, engaging with industry leaders and academic institutions to forge new partnerships. The expedition kicked off with strategic and product evaluation meetings at the eSecure offices in Warsaw. Michal Ostrowski, Chief Revenue Officer, and Krzysztof Gortat, the CEO…

29Aug 2024 by @iLabAfrica No Comments

Monitoring Air Quality in Nairobi to Curb Climate Change

IoT & Wireless Networks

Mr. Stephen Gitahi inspecting one of the air quality devices with his colleague. Strathmore University, @iLabAfrica is taking decisive action against climate change by focusing on a crucial yet often overlooked aspect: monitoring air quality as epitomized in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13. This initiative is part of a broader effort to mitigate air pollution's environmental and health consequences, a growing concern in Nairobi, Kenya. Nairobi’s Air Quality: A Growing Concern In early 2021, Nairobi was ranked as the dirtiest city in the country based on air quality measurements. With a US Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 73, the air quality was categorized as “Moderate” according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). The city’s air pollution is largely attributed to suspended particulate matter, specifically PM2.5 and PM10,…

27Aug 2024 by @iLabAfrica No Comments

Spectrum of Excellence: Recognizing Neurodivergent Achievements in Tech

Architecture

Life is filled with moments that leave an indelible mark—birthdays, weddings, graduations, and promotions, but on August 3rd, 2024, a day unfolded that transcended the ordinary, celebrating a triumph far beyond academic achievement. The graduation of the extraordinary students from the Neurodivergent in Tech programme was not just a recognition of their scholarly success; it was a tribute to their relentless journey through challenges most can scarcely imagine. These graduates have redefined success, conquering the complexities of neurodivergence with resilience, determination, and an unbreakable spirit. Irene Wanjiku, The program manager kicked off extending her felicitations to the students, partners, and parents for the unweaving support and trust in the programme. Dr. Sevilla Joseph, Director @iLabAfrica congratulated the students on their achievements as he highlighted the progress of the Neurodivergent in…

20Aug 2024 by @iLabAfrica No Comments

@iLabAfrica, Strathmore University and Partners Align Tech Education with Industry Needs

IoT & Wireless Networks

‘Internet of Things is an emerging technology that is changing the way we do things so we have to embrace it and the only way to do that is to include it in the curriculum review process.’- Mr. Jared Nganyi, Manager of IoT Unit, @iLabAfrica, Strathmore University. @iLabAfrica, Strathmore University joined fellow industry players in June at Summerdale Inn for the VocalizeIoT workshop, themed "Bridging the Gap: Aligning Tech Education with Industry Needs for the Fourth Industrial Revolution." The event brought together stakeholders from various sectors, including policymakers in agriculture, education, transport, TVETA institutions, and CEOs from companies and SMEs. This workshop was a key element of the VocalizeIoT project’s implementation phase, aimed at exploring opportunities, identifying challenges, and aligning education with industry needs to prepare for a more…

19Aug 2024 by @iLabAfrica No Comments

Unfiltered: My Untold Story of Entrepreneurship

Innovation & Incubation

Starting a business can feel like you're navigating uncharted waters alone. The ups and downs, the uncertainties—it is easy to feel isolated. But what if you had a community of driven entrepreneurs to navigate those challenges with? That’s the magic of the Founders Connect Series! Held on the 2nd of August, 2024, at the Microsoft Auditorium, Strathmore University, this event, part of the Talent 4 Startups Programme, brought together over 80 founders to connect, share, and learn from one another. The impact is real: mentored businesses see an 83% increase in revenue, and 71% of entrepreneurs with mentors report higher job satisfaction, according to a study by MicroMentor. Events like Founders Connect are not just gatherings—they are lifelines, offering the mentorship and community that can make all the difference in…

12Aug 2024 by @iLabAfrica 2 Comments

Pioneering Transparency: Revamped Public Procurement Informational Portal Launched

E-Health

@iLabAfrica, Strathmore University, in liaison with the Public Procurement Regulatory Board (PPRA) and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ), ushered in a new age of Transparency with the Public Procurement Information Portal launch, August 7th, 2024 at KISM Towers. This launch marked the beginning of a more transparent era in tender management and approvals in alignment with SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and more especially SDG 16.5 (Substantially Reduce Corruption and Bribery). Initially, the system was launched in 2018 following non-protocol procedures that PPRA had to act on and ensure that the portal captured every detail from the call of the tender to certification and completion with solving issues related to procurement complaints which left the portal in dire need of a revamp. The enhanced portal brought…

10Aug 2024 by @iLabAfrica No Comments

Scaling Beyond Borders: A Guide Strategy for Startups and SMEs

Innovation & Incubation

Navigating the startup journey is akin to traversing a winding road fraught with challenges. There are many trials, from surviving the pivotal first year in the market to crafting a distinct brand identity and fostering a loyal customer base. However, even after establishing a foothold in the industry, a new mountain emerges: scaling the business. This phase presents its own set of hurdles, including inadequate funding, suboptimal managerial practices, and navigating through sometimes unfavorable government policies. These challenges are particularly pronounced in Kenya, yet they also offer opportunities for innovative solutions and strategic growth. @iBizAfrica in partnership with WYLDE International hosted a startup and SME mentorship session on themed, ‘Navigating Growth Challenges Scales Strategies for African Startups and SMEs’ to delve into the intricacies of scaling startups in Kenya and…

23Jul 2024 by @iLabAfrica 1 Comment

Immersive Learning: Integrating Artificial Intelligence into Education

Artificial Intelligence

In an era defined by rapid technological advancement, it is no wonder that artificial intelligence has emerged as a transformative force across various fields such as fintech, banking, retail, and recently education. From personalized learning experiences to administrative efficiency, Artificial Intelligence tools have been deployed in learning institutions across the globe with over 60% of educators using AI in their classrooms according to Forbes Advisor. Despite AI’s popularity in the educational landscape especially with Open AI’s ChatGPT becoming a constant helper with students’ assignments with over 100 million users according to UNESCO, educators and experts are skeptical about Artificial Intelligence taking center stage and instead predict it will play a supporting role in the teaching process assisting educators with administrative tasks hence the time spent on those tasks can be…

16Jul 2024 by @iLabAfrica No Comments

Artificial Intelligence: What have you done for me lately?

Artificial Intelligence

July 16th is a day we commemorate Artificial Intelligence Appreciation Day which seeks to highlight the positive achievements of A.I. technology to humanity while also shining a spotlight on A.I. ethics. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept; it's a dynamic force shaping industries and transforming societies globally. AI is becoming a game-changer in Kenya, driving innovation and offering solutions to local challenges. As we delve into the latest trends and advancements, it's clear that AI is not just a buzzword—it's a reality reshaping the Kenyan landscape profoundly and this is how AI has made an impact in Agriculture, Healthcare and Civic Education Empowering Agriculture One of the most impactful applications of AI in Kenya is in the agricultural sector. With over 70% of the population relying on…