The Computer Science Department of St. Paul's University successfully conducted an educational and industry exposure visit on 29th July 2026, providing students with an invaluable opportunity to bridge classroom learning with real-world applications of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, innovation, and digital entrepreneurship.
The academic trip featured visits to three leading ICT institutions: the African Advanced Level Telecommunications Institute (AFRALTI), Ubunifu Innovation Hub, and the Cisco Cyber Security Center (The Edge Centre) together with the Cisco Networking Academy (NetAcad) hosted through the Centre for Computing and Development Laboratory (C4DLab) at the University of Nairobi.
The first stop was AFRALTI, a non-profit intergovernmental organization established in 1991 to build ICT human capacity and promote digital innovation across Africa. Students learned about AFRALTI's role in developing advanced ICT skills through professional training, research, and international collaborations. The institution serves member states including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, the Kingdom of Eswatini, and The Gambia, while offering internationally recognized programs through its partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Academy and global technology companies.
Students were also introduced to the Ubunifu Innovation Hub, an innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem hosted at AFRALTI. The hub nurtures startups, student innovators, and technology entrepreneurs by providing mentorship, incubation, training, and opportunities to transform innovative ideas into commercially viable digital solutions. The visit inspired students to embrace entrepreneurship and innovation as viable career pathways alongside traditional employment.
A major highlight of the visit was the interaction with ZeroBionic, a Kenyan disability-led robotics startup developing AI-powered assistive technologies. Students witnessed demonstrations of intelligent robotic solutions designed to improve accessibility for persons with disabilities. The startup showcased its flagship technology that translates spoken language into sign language and sign language back into speech in real time, enabling more inclusive learning environments, particularly in STEM education. The presentation demonstrated how artificial intelligence and robotics can be applied to solve real societal challenges while promoting digital inclusion.
The final destination was the Cisco Cyber Security Center (The Edge Centre) and the Cisco Networking Academy (NetAcad) at the University of Nairobi through C4DLab. Students gained practical insights into contemporary cybersecurity operations, secure network infrastructure, cyber threat detection, and incident response. They also explored the Cisco Networking Academy's globally recognized certification programs and learned about career opportunities in networking, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure.
Throughout the visit, students interacted with ICT professionals, researchers, innovators, and trainers who shared industry experiences, emerging technology trends, and practical advice on preparing for careers in the rapidly evolving digital economy. The exposure reinforced classroom concepts in networking, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, software development, and innovation management while highlighting the importance of continuous learning and professional certification.
Speaking after the visit, members of the Computer Science Department emphasized the importance of experiential learning in preparing graduates for industry. Such educational visits complement academic instruction by exposing students to emerging technologies, professional work environments, and innovation ecosystems that shape the future of computing.
The department extends its sincere appreciation to AFRALTI, Ubunifu Innovation Hub, ZeroBionic, C4DLab, the Cisco Cyber Security Center, and the Cisco Networking Academy for warmly hosting the students and sharing their expertise. The visit strengthened partnerships between academia and industry while inspiring students to become innovative, ethical, and globally competitive ICT professionals.
The Computer Science Department remains committed to providing transformative learning experiences that equip students with the technical competencies, practical skills, and innovative mindset required to thrive in today's technology-driven world.