Digital inclusion is often measured by connection: who has internet access, who can use digital tools, and who is participating online. These are important measures of progress. But as artificial intelligence and digital technologies increasingly shape economies, industries, public services, and everyday life, I believe we need to ask a deeper question: Once women are connected, what are they empowered to do with that access? This question was at the centre of my contribution

Mentorship has the power to change trajectories, strengthen communities, and create opportunities that extend far beyond a single conversation. On 24 September 2026, we celebrated the launch of the third cycle of the UCD Bridging Generations African Mentoring Programme, continuing an initiative dedicated to connecting students with experienced professionals who are willing to share their knowledge, experience, and guidance. A Programme Built on Connection At its heart, the Br

Reflections on Education, Collaboration, and the Connections That Endure Image credit: Aideen Carty. Description: From left to right: Engr. Dr Mary Taiwo Ajide and Prof. Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye, Vice-Chancellor of Igbinedion University, Okada, and Chairman of the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities. There are moments in an academic journey that prompt reflection not because of the event itself, but because of what it represents. Recently, I had the priv

Reflections from the Maiden Alumni Homecoming Ceremony at Igbinedion University, Okada Image credit: Mary Taiwo Ajide On 22 April 2026, I had the privilege of returning to my alma mater, Igbinedion University, Okada, as an Alumni Speaker at the Maiden Alumni Homecoming Ceremony of the Gen. Abdulsalam A. Abubakar College of Engineering. The event, themed “From Foundation to Frontiers: Celebrating Engineering Legacy and Innovations,” brought together alumni, faculty, students,

Newsletter | Launch of the Second Cycle 📅 Date: 25th September 2025 📍 Location: Gerard Manley Hopkins Building, University College Dublin A New Chapter Begins: The Second Cycle Launch On the 25th of September 2025, the second cycle of the UCD Bridging Generations African Mentoring Programme was officially launched – building upon the strong foundation laid in the previous year. With heartfelt support from UCD Global Engagement, UCD Alumni, and the African Scholars Associa

Description: Water bubbles drifting in mesmerising slow-motion, like a cinematic dance of liquid elegance. Source: Mary Ajide - Vimeo Date: 3rd – 5th September 2025 Location: Killashee Hotel Conference Room, Naas, Co. Kildare, Ireland The inaugural Nanobubble, Energy and Water (NEW) Conference 2025 , themed “Pathways to Industrial and Environmental Sustainability,” was held from the 3rd to the 5th of September at the scenic Killashee Hotel in County Kildare, Ireland. This