Microsoft’s Engineering, Data Operations, and Tools (EDOT) Group, in collaboration with Ashesi’s Career Services Office, has launched a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Pathways mentorship program for students. The program is designed to empower STEM talent through mentorship and pairs 70 mentors from the EDOT Group with 70 STEM-focused second and third-year students from Ashesi.
Mentees will have regular conversations with their Microsoft mentors, in addition to structured sessions with suggested topics and themes. Structured session themes include goal-setting, exploring STEM careers, and preparing for the job search. The program also provides networking opportunities that connect mentees with industry professionals in their areas of interest.
The collaboration was championed by several members of the EDOT team, including Dzifa Biga, Program Manager in Microsoft’s AI Transformation Office. After learning about Ashesi through her network, Biga was eager to find a way to support the University’s commitment to developing African leadership. This informed her engagement with the mentorship program, working with colleagues Audrey Kono, Cary Anderson, and Anisha Verghese to make it happen.
“The programme aims to provide a comprehensive and supportive mentoring experience, helping students develop their skills, build their professional networks and prepare for successful careers in STEM fields,” Biga explained.
In addition to the mentorship component, Microsoft also matches volunteer hours donated by mentors with funds through the Ashesi Foundation.
Anderson, Director of Business Analytics at Microsoft, also shared some of her own experiences with mentorship over the course of her career.
“I sought out mentors early in my career as a Business Analyst at Microsoft,” she added. “Mentorship has been crucial in building my confidence. Having someone to provide encouragement and constructive feedback has made me feel more ready and able to tackle intimidating tasks and build new relationships.”
Electrical Engineering student Maame Kraba Obosu ‘27 reflected on her experience so far, saying, “It has helped push me out of my comfort zone. I am adding to my skills in ways that I would not have done on my own.”
