Oracle Centre of Excellence Launched at @iLabAfrica

Posted on September 10, 2014 Updated on September 13, 2014

The Oracle Centre of Excellence was launched on 10th September 2014 at @iLabAfrica Strathmore University. The Center which is set to become the focal point of Oracle training and resources in Kenya was officially opened by the cabinet secretary for ICT Dr. Fred Matiang’i. The minister was pleased to return to Strathmore again for yet another important milestone in nurturing ICT Skills for Kenya. Dr. Matiang’i   lauded the collaboration between government and private sector saying it was what would help narrow the skills gap in ICTs in the country. He invited Oracle to expand the program across other universities in Kenya so as to tap into the great talent possessed by the youth in Kenya.

The Oracle Centre of Excellence at Strathmore University is a state-of-the-art computer lab that will be used to train teachers and students at secondary and university level across the country in oracle technologies, such as Java and Oracle 11 g databases. The lab which has a capacity of more than 30 pcs is part of the Oracle Academy program and is already running the first course in Oracle database administrator.

The Oracle team was led by the country manager for Kenya Dr Gilbert Saggia accompanied by Njeri Maina the business manager  Oracle Academy Africa , James Richardson the manager of for Oracle Academy EMEA and other team members from Oracle.  In attendance was also the Director of @iLabAfrica Dr. Joseph Sevilla. Dr. Sevilla in his remarks pointed out that @iLabAfrica has feet on the ground to impart students with skills relevant in the industry. The Oracle Centre of Excellence would play a big role in helping out @iLabAfrica in this mandate.  The Dean of the Faculty of IT Dr. Joseph Orero and other members of the faculty also graced the landmark launch.