Biography:
Fatimata Seye Sylla is an influential figure in Senegal’s digital landscape. Known for her work in promoting the use of information and communications technology (ICT) in education and advocating for internet accessibility, she has made significant contributions to the development of ICT initiatives in Africa.
Seye Sylla’s journey in the field of ICT began with her education at the University of Le Havre, where she earned a degree in computer science. This laid the foundation for her passion and expertise in the technological realm. Building upon this, she furthered her education at CESAG Dakar, where she obtained a degree in Management, and eventually pursued a Master of Science at MIT.
Throughout her career, Seye Sylla has held various prominent positions, showcasing her dedication to advancing ICT in Africa. She served as the Senegal National Coordinator of the African Civil Society for the Information Society, demonstrating her commitment to fostering collaboration and inclusivity within the digital sphere. Additionally, she played a key role as a council member for the Free and Open Source Software Foundation for Africa, working towards the promotion and adoption of open-source software across the continent.
One of Seye Sylla’s notable achievements is her pioneering work in introducing ICT in Senegalese schools. She initiated the first nationwide program to incorporate technology into the education system, recognizing its potential to broaden access to knowledge and empower students. By championing the use of ICT in education, she has paved the way for enhanced learning opportunities and digital literacy in Senegal.
Not limiting herself to national endeavors, Seye Sylla has also been an active participant in global initiatives. During her tenure as a member of the At-Large Advisory Committee for ICANN, she represented Senegal and advocated for greater involvement of the developing world in internet governance. Through her involvement with organizations like the United Nations, the Panos Network, and the International Development Research Centre, she has worked tirelessly to promote internet access and bridge the digital divide.
Seye Sylla’s activism extends beyond her professional engagements. She has been instrumental in founding OSIRIS, a pro-ICT initiative, and has actively contributed to the Internet Society, further amplifying her efforts to advance digital connectivity and empowerment in Senegal.
In her writing, Seye Sylla has analyzed the disparity between how boys and girls utilize ICT and has developed strategies to attract more young women to technology-related fields where they are often underrepresented. She emphasizes the importance of educational training, encouraging women to build websites, involving policymakers, and incentivizing women’s participation through discounted telecommunications services.
Overall, Fatimata Seye Sylla’s dedication, expertise, and visionary approach have positioned her as a leading figure in Senegal’s ICT landscape. Her contributions to expanding internet accessibility and empowering individuals through technology make her a trailblazer in the digital realm and a significant influence on women’s history.