Google exploreCSR Trains 100 Female Undergraduates on Computing, DEI Inclusion in Northeast Nigeria
By Ojoma Yusuf,Yola
Google’s exploreCSR initiative has trained 100 female undergraduate students in computer science and information technology from Adamawa State University (ADSU), Modibo Adama University, and Adamawa State Polytechnic.
The three-day workshop, organized by Google Search CR4Q, focused on advanced computing skills and fostering inclusivity in the Northeast.
The training, titled “Empowering Marginalized Female Students in Computing: An Inclusive Curriculum and Research Mentorship Initiative for Northeast Nigeria,” aimed to equip participants with technical skills while addressing gender inequality in STEM education.
The initiative emphasized Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) to encourage full female participation in academics and the tech industry.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Professor Adeyemi Abel Ajibesin, Principal Investigator of Google Research (exploreCSR) from the Department of Software Engineering, American University of Nigeria, highlighted the marginalization of women in computing fields, particularly in the Northeast.
He stressed that the program seeks to bridge the gap by providing technical training and mentorship opportunities.
“This workshop is a unique opportunity for female computer science undergraduates to expand their knowledge and take their place in the tech industry,” Ajibesin said, urging participants to maximize the learning experience.
One of the resource persons, Dr. D. Narmadha, an Associate Professor at Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, India, educated participants on the importance of fostering DEI for a more inclusive future.
Also on his part, Dr. Caitlyn M. mcColeman, a Research Scientist at Google Inc., delivered a lecture on mentorship, emphasizing the role of professional relationships in expanding career opportunities. “Having a mentor can make a significant difference in navigating one’s career successfully,” she noted.
A key highlight of the event was the launch and free distribution of the book “Empowering Women” by Ambassador Tabitha Hris, aimed at sustaining the impact of the training and inspiring female students to pursue careers in computing.
The initiative is part of Google’s ongoing efforts to promote gender equality and digital empowerment in marginalized communities.
