Refactory Academy, a software skilling academy, and its partners are set to hold an inaugural Uganda Developer Summit (UG DevSummit), a landmark event that aims to revolutionize Uganda’s developer landscape, accelerate the adoption of information technology (IT), and open up global work opportunities for local tech talent.
Under the theme, “Positioning Uganda’s Tech Talent for Digital Economy Growth”, the UG DevSummit will bring together tech talent, employers in tech, developers from around East Africa & across Africa, regulators of the tech industry & Government (MDAs), industry leaders, tertiary academic institutions, Enterprise Support Organisations (ESOs), HR associations & recruitment agencies, fintech strategic partners, and development partners, among others to shape the future of Uganda’s digital economy.
“UG DevSummit is a powerhouse that will turn the spotlight on the incredible tech talent in Uganda and open us up to opportunities for growth, innovation, decent work, and Uganda’s qualitative economic growth,” Micheal Nyitegeka, Executive Director, Refactory Academy, said in a press statement.
The UG DevSummit promises not just to spotlight the latest in Uganda’s burgeoning tech scene but to present a transformative outlook towards the transformation of Uganda’s digital economy, through the lens of the country’s tech leaders and developers.
The advancement of Uganda’s tech ecosystem is crucial for positioning the country as a key player in the global digital economy and driving innovation and growth across sectors, such as education, finance, agriculture, energy, health, and telecommunications.
Refactory Academy with its industry-led skilling model, is at the forefront of transforming Uganda’s tech industry. It is uniquely positioned to convene the tech ecosystem at this inaugural gathering and to lead the charge toward a future where Uganda’s tech talent thrives and drives the digital economy forward.
Set to be held from 18-19 July 2024 at the National ICT Innovation Hub in Nakawa, the inaugural gathering will have engaging sessions, including keynote presentations, technical demo booths, master classes, a career fair, industry breakout sessions, diaspora fireside chat, mentorship lounge, and panel sessions.
Nyitegeka noted that the summit allows the academy to go a step further by giving those that they train the opportunity to engage with and learn from peers, potential mentors, employers, experts, and thought leaders.
Through interactive sessions, hands-on workshops, and unparalleled networking opportunities, attendees can expect to not only learn from industry experts but also to connect with like-minded individuals, forge new partnerships, and explore the latest trends and technologies shaping the future of tech in Uganda.
Designed to ignite one’s passion for technology and innovation, UG DevSummit will cover a vast number of topics including positioning Uganda’s tech talent in the global market, adapting to emerging technologies, digital transformation & Industry 4.0, tech governance & policy regulation, developing talent for the marketplace, cyber security, AI & ML, blockchain technology, ethical tech, innovations, and access to Infrastructure for tech talent (devices, spaces/hubs, internet and licenses), to mention a few.
Over the course of two days in collaboration with stakeholders from across the tech ecosystem, UG DevSummit will aim to;
- Foster an environment that encourages continuous learning and engagement.
- Drive systemic impact by democratizing access to infrastructure for tech talent.
- Facilitate recruitment and talent acquisition.
- Encourage exploration of new technologies.
- Build a thriving developer community.
Refactory is addressing the need to produce skilled software developers in Uganda —training the next generation of software developers and experts responsive to the needs of the ecosystem.
“The work we do at Refactory Academy involves training the next generation of software developers and experts to be of great relevance to the needs and demands of industry,” said Nyitegeka.
According to the 2020 Google Developer survey, Africa is home to a staggering 700,000 developers, with Uganda accounting for 11,003, Kenya for 58,175, Nigeria for 83,609, and South Africa for 118,541. These numbers underscore the immense potential of Uganda’s tech talent to not only drive the country’s economic growth but also
Uganda’s digital technology sector is on the brink of a revolution, driven by a growing interest in software development and the innovative use of technology to tackle society’s most pressing issues. As this sector gains momentum, there is a pressing need to bring together the brightest minds to explore the vast opportunities and solve the formidable challenges that lie ahead in the digital economy.
Pre-register today at https://ugdevsummit.io/ to attend the inaugural Uganda Developer Summit (UG DevSummit).
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