On May 29th, 2025, a delegation of 60 students from the Department of Computing at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), led by JHUB Africa, had the privilege of attending a powerful guest lecture hosted by Microsoft Africa Development Centre (ADC). The event, held at the ALN Kenya | Anjarwalla & Khanna offices, was more than just a lecture — it was a glimpse into the evolving tech landscape and the leadership needed to shape it.
Titled “Engineering Leadership in the Age of AI – Security, Innovation & the Future of Tech,” the session featured keynote speaker Igor Sakhnov, Microsoft’s Corporate Vice President, alongside a dynamic panel of experts and tech leaders.
A Vision of Empowerment Meets a Global Tech Perspective
True to Dr. Lawrence Nderu’s vision of exposing young innovators to real-world thought leadership, the event offered students an unmatched opportunity to engage with global professionals at the forefront of AI, cybersecurity, and engineering leadership.
Moderated by Dr. Nderu, the panel included Igor Sakhnov, Norhan Elassy, Vojtech Vondra, and Mbabu Muturi, each bringing a unique lens to the discussion. From the future of cybersecurity to the importance of diversity and the realities of navigating tech careers, the session was filled with practical insights, lived experiences, and forward-looking ideas.
“AI is a playground. We are all kids learning and exploring.”
— Igor Sakhnov, Corporate VP, Microsoft
Sakhnov’s keynote encouraged attendees to embrace curiosity, adapt to change, and dive deep into technology. Citing real-world cybersecurity events like Storm-0558, he emphasized that understanding today’s cyber landscape requires continuous learning, adaptability, and the courage to ask bold questions.
From Curiosity to Career Readiness
JKUAT students rose to the occasion, actively engaging with the panel through a Q&A session that touched on everything from imposter syndrome and AI job displacement, to personal branding and emerging roles in cybersecurity.
“A village once spared its only cobbler, not its roofer — because unique skills are irreplaceable.”
— Norhan Elassy, Microsoft ADC
Elassy’s analogy underscored a recurring theme: Your skillset is your identity, and in an age of automation, uniqueness is your competitive edge. She also made a passionate call for greater inclusion of women in tech, especially in cybersecurity, where attention to detail is not just valuable — it’s vital.
Meanwhile, Mbabu Muturi issued a wake-up call to Africa’s emerging tech talent:
“There’s no spot for you if you don’t embrace AI. Learn the fundamentals. Decentralise your skills. Cyber resilience requires collaboration — between academia, industry, and government.”
Africa’s Digital City Needs Gatekeepers
The panel painted a vivid metaphor: Africa is like a fast-growing city, full of opportunity, glowing lights, and open roads — but shadowed by growing cyber threats. To protect this city, we need a new generation of skilled gatekeepers who understand both the technology and the responsibility that comes with it.
This message landed clearly with students and faculty alike: Africa’s digital resilience will be written by those who start preparing today.
Seamless Coordination, Powerful Collaboration
The event was smoothly executed under the coordination of Irene Githinji, Ecosystem Lead at Microsoft ADC, whose efforts ensured every detail — from logistics to learner engagement — supported a rich, impactful experience for all.
JHUB Africa extends its heartfelt gratitude to Microsoft ADC for organizing such an insightful learning experience, and to ALN Kenya | Anjarwalla & Khanna for graciously hosting the event.
Looking Ahead: Embrace Change, Go Deep, Show Up
One message echoed through every session: Innovation demands action. Leadership begins with curiosity. And the future belongs to those who are willing to build it.
At JHUB Africa, we are proud to be shaping that future — not just in our labs and classrooms, but through partnerships that give our students a seat at the table of global tech transformation.
To explore mentorships, collaborative sessions, or industry engagements, reach us at info.jhub@jkuat.ac.ke
Because Africa’s tech future won’t wait — and neither will we.