Applications for tech programme

EMERGING women leaders in science, technology, engineering and maths have an opportunity to apply for the 2018 TechWomen programme.

Now in its eighth year running, TechWomen is a programme specifically for women from Africa, South and Central Asia and the Middle East. It provides an extensive mentorship and exchange programme based in San Francisco, US.

Applicants will have the opportunity to advance their careers, pursue their dreams and inspire women and girls in their communities, the US Department of State says.

Through mentorship and the exchange programme, the department says, TechWomen strengthen participants’ professional capacity, increase mutual understanding between key networks of professionals and expand girls’ interest in Stem (science, technology, engineering and maths) careers by exposing them to female role models.

Requirements for the programme include a minimum of two years of full-time professional experience in the Stem fields.

Having been in an internship and other unpaid work experience does not count.

Must-haves include a minimum Bachelor’s university degree or equivalent.

Candidates, the department says, have to have a proven record of voluntary or public service in their communities, and a track record of entrepreneurialism.

And they have to have demonstrated a willingness to participate in exchange programmes.

The five-week programme will include 100 “amazing” women and South African women have a chance to join those from countries such as Algeria, Cameroon, Egypt, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestinian Territories, Rwanda, Uzbekistan and Zimbabwe.

Applications close January 17. on