To celebrate International Women's Day (IWD), we are shining a light on some of the amazing women who help shape National College of Ireland. Find out what IWD means to them.
Dr. Shivani Jaswal, Assistant Professor in Cloud Computing at NCI
International Women’s Day, March 8th, 2025
Shining a light on the women of NCI.
My name is Dr. Shivani Jaswal, and I have been working at NCI since May 2022.
I am an Assistant Professor at NCI, who specialises in Cloud Computing and delivers modules at Master’s level. I design and deliver high-quality academic content; mentor students and supervise research projects.
I am also a Programme Director, leading postgraduate programmes in Open Data Practice and Higher Diploma in Science in Computing, ensuring high academic standards and student satisfaction. Programme Director responsibilities include managing programme reviews, contributing to module development, and maintaining a dynamic curriculum.
Additionally, I am an active researcher and reviewer, contributing to international journals and conferences.
Passion for technology
My journey to NCI has been shaped by a deep passion for technology, research, and education. I hold a PhD in Computer Applications from Chandigarh University and a Master’s in Computer Applications from PTU.
With over 13 years of experience in academia, I have worked extensively in programme leadership, curriculum development, research supervision, and institutional accreditations. Before joining NCI, I held key leadership roles at Chandigarh University, where I served as Programme Leader for Master’s in Computer Application courses.
My path has been driven by a commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and student success, and NCI provides the perfect platform to continue making an impact in these areas.
Motivation
What motivates me is the opportunity to inspire and empower others through knowledge and action. As an educator, I find motivation in seeing my students grow, succeed, and become confident in their abilities.
My work motivates me to contribute to a world where diversity and inclusion are celebrated, and where I can play a part in shaping the future of technology by mentoring and supporting others. On a personal level, my family, and the desire to continuously improve myself, fuel my drive to achieve more, not only for myself but also for those I can influence around me.
Women in tech, women in leadership
As a woman in the workplace, I have witnessed significant changes in both my career and the broader work environment. When I first started in academia and technology, there were fewer women in leadership roles, and the challenges to be taken seriously were often more pronounced. Over the years, I have seen a shift toward greater inclusion, with more women pursuing careers in tech and academia, and more policies designed to promote diversity.
Changes in legislation, such as those aimed at closing the gender pay gap, improving maternity and paternity leave, and encouraging flexible work arrangements, have had a positive impact on women’s ability to balance career and family life. These changes have provided more opportunities for women to succeed in the workplace and feel supported as they navigate their careers.
Outside of work, I have seen the importance of creating a supportive network of women who mentor, inspire, and encourage each other to grow. Having this community has been essential in my own journey and has reminded me of the importance of supporting other women as we all continue to break barriers and pave the way for future generations.
International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day holds significant meaning to me as it provides an important opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made towards gender equality, while also recognizing how much work remains. It is a day to celebrate the achievements of women in all fields, from science and technology to politics and the arts, and to acknowledge the invaluable contributions women make every day. For me, it’s not just about celebrating women’s successes but also raising awareness of the challenges many still face. I view International Women’s Day as a reminder that, while strides have been made, we must continue to work towards breaking down barriers, challenging stereotypes, and ensuring equal opportunities for women everywhere.
It is a day to renew our commitment to creating a more inclusive world for future generations.