Tech entrepreneur wins Strathclyde People Award
A University of Strathclyde graduate who established a rapidly-emerging IT company has won an award from his alma mater in recognition of his achievements and his support for current students.
The Strathclyde People award has been made to Craig Taylor, Managing Director of Cojengo, which produces apps and data designed to help farmers in sub-Saharan Africa to have illness in their livestock diagnosed and treated quickly and effectively.
The award is presented to alumni who continue to play an active and productive role in Strathclyde’s work.
Craig has been extensively supported in his venture by the Strathclyde Entrepreneurial Network, a collaborative network that brings together the University’s academic and professional services to support enterprise and commercialisation activity. He has, in turn, volunteered his own time and experience to the Strathclyde community, particularly in guiding aspiring entrepreneurs.
Craig, who graduated in Computer Science from Strathclyde in 2008, received the Strathclyde People award during a graduation ceremony at Strathclyde’s Barony Hall. He said:
“The support Strathclyde has offered us whilst forming Cojengo has been invaluable, from access to their network and investment opportunities to two non-executives on our board, student interns and office accommodation. There has also been endless support from the Strathclyde Entrepreneurial Network; Cojengo wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for them.”
Professor Ian Ruthven, Head of Strathclyde’s Department of Computer & Information Sciences, presented Craig for the award. He said:
“Craig has taken part, and continues to take part, in events which raise awareness of enterprise activities at Strathclyde and inspire students to give entrepreneurship a go.”
The Strathclyde People Award recognises the dedication, support and contributions of individual alumni to the success of Strathclyde’s entrepreneurial spirit. Through his many alumni volunteering activities, Craig has stimulated entrepreneurial thinking, provided new opportunities for enhancing our student’s University experience, and mentored new University talent.
The award was presented ahead of Celebration of Enterprise Week, a series of events from 17-21 November showcasing the work of Strathclyde Entrepreneurial Network and promoting the entrepreneurial spirit that permeates the University.
In 2014, Cojengo teamed up with software giant Microsoft to provide innovative diagnostic tools and disease surveillance data for farmers in Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda and Tanzania.
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