CMU-Africa students build strategic networks in the United States

A delegation from Carnegie Mellon University Africa (CMU-Africa) recently traveled to the United States, connecting with various organizations to strengthen global networks. The trip aligned with CMU-Africa’s mission to empower African talent with the skills and insights needed to shape the future as global leaders and innovative problem solvers.

During their visit, the group engaged with iconic institutions, including the Challenger Center, where the CMU-Africa students interacted with pioneers in cutting-edge technology and innovations firsthand. The experience provided inspiration and a clear vision of how Africa can play a critical role in global tech advancements.

"Our goal is to advance the CMU-Africa mission by connecting African talent with the global landscape, fostering global access and exposure to ecosystems," said Conrad Tucker, CMU-Africa director. "Through this, we can democratize knowledge and ensure our students actively contribute to the global conversation on technology and innovation in Africa's digital transformation."

They also visited influential organizations such as Fund II Foundation and the Atlantic Council, where they explored the intersection of policy and technology. "Policy influences everything," Tucker remarked, underscoring the importance of understanding how governance shapes technological advancements and vice versa.

At WhiteHawk Inc., a leading cybersecurity firm, the group explored potential research partnerships and internship opportunities for CMU-Africa students, offering students practical pathways to upward mobility. Such experiences emphasize the talent that Africa produces and how strategic partnerships can open doors for African innovators on a global scale.

"This level of global exposure, particularly with leading firms in the field of cybersecurity, has given me the confidence to know that I can contribute meaningfully to real-world solutions," said Lenah Chacha (MSIT '17), a CMU-Africa alumna who participated in the U.S. trip.

Our goal is to advance the CMU-Africa mission by connecting African talent with the global landscape, fostering global access and exposure to ecosystems.

Conrad Tucker, Director of CMU-Africa

A major highlight of the visit was attending the Conference for African American Researchers in the Mathematical Sciences, CAARMS 2024 at Tufts University in Boston, where the CMU-Africa students participated in talks and poster presentations, engaging with leading experts on topics ranging from quantum gravity to AI-driven supply chain optimization.

Reflecting on the experience, Gad Rukundo (MSIT '25) said, "My key highlight was attending CAARMS . I gained invaluable networking opportunities with peers, reinforcing my passion to share new ideas and collaborate on innovative approaches with my classmates."

Through these engagements, CMU-Africa continues to foster partnerships that elevate African talent and contribute to solving global challenges. An outcome is the visit by the Fund II Foundation to the CMU-Africa location in Kigali, Rwanda. These new global connections will unlock endless possibilities for CMU-Africa students to make a lasting impact on the African continent and beyond.