Derragui Hibat-Allah-Mouna | Lois Christopher Mwamzanya | Thiouna Traore | Amanda Sibanda | Marie Yahaya Abdou Maikassoua | Amie Marie Flora Dushimumukiza | Fifaliana Arizaka | Cathleen Sacheus | Olorato Ralefala
The AWC Women and Girls Digital Tech Hub has announced the successful graduation of nine women from across Africa following the completion of its six-month Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science Program, Cohort 1.
The initiative was jointly implemented by the Helpline Social Support Initiative, Africa Women Conference (AWC), and DataCamp Donates USA, and was designed to equip women and girls with future-ready digital skills in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Data Analysis, and related technologies.
According to the organisers, the programme combined structured virtual learning, hands-on practical assignments, and certification pathways aligned with industry standards. Participants were trained across key technical areas, including SQL-based data analysis, Python programming, Power BI dashboard development, and foundational AI engineering for data science applications.
The graduating Cohort 1 fellows included Derragui Hibat-Allah-Mouna, Lois Christopher Mwamzanya, Thiouna Traore, Amanda Sibanda, Marie Yahaya Abdou Maikassoua, Amie Marie Flora Dushimumukiza, Fifaliana Arizaka, Cathleen Sacheus, and Olorato Ralefala.
Organisers noted that the programme was part of a broader continental effort to close the gender gap in technology and increase African women’s participation in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, and digital innovation. The training also emphasised employability skills, problem-solving, and data-driven decision-making to prepare participants for opportunities in the global digital economy.
The Cohort 1 closing ceremony was held virtually on Saturday, 16 May 2026, at 2:00 PM West Africa Time (WAT). The event featured a special address by the Convener of the Africa Women Conference, Dr Jumai Ahmadu, alongside other stakeholders and programme partners.
The graduating cohort is expected to transition into professional and academic pathways in data and AI-related fields, with organisers expressing optimism that the programme will help build a stronger pipeline of skilled women technologists across Africa.
The initiative highlighted growing collaboration between development-focused organisations committed to expanding digital literacy and empowering women through technology education and certification programmes.
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Senior AI Writer
Bio: Okikiola is a writer and AI enthusiast with a background in Office Technology and Management from the Federal Polytechnic Offa. She went further to study an MSc in International Business at De Montfort University (DMU). With extensive work experience across administrative and business roles, she now focuses on exploring how artificial intelligence can transform work, innovation, and everyday life.