Kampala, (UG):- The Executive Director of Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU), Mr Ernest Rubondo has commended the SLB Faculty for the Future programme (formerly known as Schlumberger) for its efforts in advancing Ugandan women in Science and Technology.
Rubondo’s remarks came after at least seven Ugandan women were confirmed to have benefited from the programme that offers fellowship grants to women from developing and emerging economies, to pursue PhD or Postdoctoral research in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields at leading universities worldwide.
Mr Rubondo was meeting with Mr Wallace Pescarini, the President of SLB OffshorenAtlantic Basin, at Petroleum House in Entebbe on Thursday said “The initiative has promoted gender equality and women’s emancipation in Science and Technology.”
“We understand that about seven Ugandan Women have benefited from the programme. We hope to see these numbers grow,” he added.
Mr Pescarini who is currently in the Country to participate in the STEM Forum for Women in the East African Region highlighted SLB’s longstanding partnership with Uganda spanning over 18 years, marked by continuous investment, national capacity development and innovative projects ensuring the nation’s energy security.
“We acknowledge the crucial role of energy in driving Uganda’s progress and believe that collaborative efforts and shared objectives can lead to significant advancements in shaping a sustainable energy future for Uganda, while also addressing broader developmental goals,” he said.
Currently, SLB is contracted to undertake directional drilling tasks on the Tilenga Project and provide software solutions for various oil and gas players involved in Uganda’s oil project.
Mr Pescarini and the SLB team expressed their eagerness to collaborate closely with the PAU, discussing initiatives and potential areas of cooperation, exchanging insights, and outlining a path for mutually beneficial growth.
By supporting STEM research for female scientists in developing and emerging economies, SLB aims to enhance scientific and technological progress within the local communities and regions where selected candidates are awarded this programme.
Since its inception, the programme has benefited 863 women from ninety countries.
Do you have a story or an opinion to share? Email us on: dailyexpressug@gmail.com Or follow the Daily Express on X Platform or WhatsApp for the latest updates.
