Women in Technology: Grace Nakulima

By Elysee Niyigena, Communications Officer, RSCE

How did you begin your career in Technology?

This started at university by taking a diploma in computer engineering and a degree in Telecommunications engineering. I knew that these courses would answer many questions and wonders I had, for example: how do wireless phones connect to each other?

Could you briefly take us through what you do in your line of work?

As a Network Engineer, we are responsible for:

• Internet connectivity at the base making sure there are no interruptions with the day-to-day work of clients.

• Protecting our organization from any kind of cyber attack by blocking all suspicious content and non-authorized users from reaching our system.

What has been your favourite IT project at the UN/RSCE?

• Setting up the new technology center from scratch, laying cables, configuring the equipment and installing it, connecting this new technology center to the old one as a failover/ backup.

• Set up of the VILT (Virtual Instructor-Led Training) laboratory for virtual classes which provides an engaging experience with participants interacting with the instructor and other classmates.

What does this year’s International Women’s Day theme (Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress) mean to you?

There is a fight for equality, inclusion and rights for women.

The fight can be won if I, as a woman, am knowledgeable and educated. Invest in me through education, trainings, scholarships, supporting my business and I will be able to justify my fight for equality and inclusion and defend my rights and that of young girls which can easily accelerate progress in a world where no one is left behind.

What advice would you give women interested in pursuing a career in technology?

Let go of your fears and embrace technology because in this new era, IT is inevitable in, for example: online marketing, bank transactions and eLearning. Technology is advancing every day, so we need to keep abreast regardless of gender. Don’t allow yourself to be left behind.

Do you have anything else to share – regarding being a Woman in Tech?

We need to encourage more women into the Tech Industry from a young age:

• Go to them in schools and inspire them

• Let them know what is involved in a career in ICT

• Continue motivating those who are already there through equal opportunities when it comes to trainings, scholarships, and leadership positions.

ICT is a fun and realistic field in making this world go forward, be a part of it!