ENGAGE

Building a Data-Driven Future for Women in East Africa

The ENGAGE program—Enabling Girls in AI and Growing Expertise in Data Science—is a groundbreaking initiative transforming the field of data science for health in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. By creating a comprehensive pathway, ENGAGE equips young women with the tools and resources to become leaders in health data science, driving innovation and improving health outcomes in their communities.

About the Program

ENGAGE is designed to build a robust ecosystem for women in East Africa to excel in data science for health. The program encompasses three interconnected pillars across three countries:

  1. Pathways Programs: Introduced in Kenya, this initiative targets young women from high school to college, creating opportunities to learn the foundations of data science and explore its applications in health.
  2. Advanced Degrees in Bioinformatics: In Uganda, ENGAGE offers Master’s and Ph.D. programs, focusing on bioinformatics and the intersection of health and technology, empowering women to tackle the most pressing public health challenges.
  3. Apprenticeship Programs: Based in Tanzania, this initiative pairs participants with data scientist mentors, providing hands-on experience in applying data science to health challenges through capstone projects with community health organizations.

A Regional Model for Collaboration

ENGAGE is not just about individual country programs; it’s about cross-border learning and resource sharing. Each country develops unique tools, curricula, and best practices that are shared regionally. This ensures that the lessons learned and innovations created in one country benefit the others, fostering collaboration and scalability.

Our Vision

We aim to create a complete pathway for women in East Africa to enter the field of data science for health—from foundational learning to advanced degrees and practical experience. By doing so, ENGAGE builds a pipeline of skilled women who can transform their communities through better health data, improved decision-making, and leadership in public health innovation.

How It Works

  • Recruitment: Identifying talented young women through school competitions, university partnerships, and rural outreach initiatives.
  • Training: A tiered approach that includes beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels to ensure inclusivity and progression.
  • Mentorship & Apprenticeships: Practical training opportunities in real-world settings with data scientist mentors.
  • Evaluation: Continuous monitoring to assess the program’s impact and refine our approach.

Why It Matters

In a world where only 22% of AI professionals are women, ENGAGE seeks to shift the power balance in public health and reduce biases in decision-making by training the next generation of female data scientists. By doing so, we are not only closing the gender gap but also empowering women to lead in transforming health systems.

Get Involved

Join us in shaping the future of health data science for women in East Africa. Whether as a participant, mentor, partner, or supporter, your involvement can make a lasting impact.

Contact Us

For more information about ENGAGE, reach out to us directly. Together, let’s build a data-driven future for women in health.