The Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen says the increased participation of girls and women in the field of Information Communication Technology (ICT) would contribute to the promotion of gender equality especially in the changing world of ICT.
She made this known in Abuja, while addressing students of Government Girls Secondary School (GGSS), Dutse, FCT in commemoration of the 2021 International Girls in ICT Day.
Mrs. Tallen decried the under-representation of women in science and technology, stating that, the day was set aside to promote exciting career opportunities for girls and young women in the world fastest growing economy and to empower them to access opportunities in ICT.
“We are committed to pressing for gender equality by ensuring that no one is left behind in the field of ICT as it is a bedrock to several enabling opportunities and lucrative jobs. Taking up career in STEM will however enable girl children to be a problem-solvers and innovators who will address some major challenges confronting our nations,’’ she said.
The minister, advised parents, teachers and female role models to encourage the girl-child to engage in STEM education by dismissing the notion that science courses were tough for females.
The President and CEO, Digital Bridge Institute, a training arm of the Nigerian Communication Commission, NCC, Prof. Mohammed Ajiya encouraged women, especially students to develop software and engage actively in the world of ICT.
The representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Mrs. Wunmi Laolu-Akande, emphasised the critical role ICT played in gathering information on Gender Based Violence (GBV), Adolescent Sexual Reproductive Health and other areas.
Highlight of the event was a presentation of software, “RoboTraffic” created by some students to control traffic and track violators of traffic laws.
FRCN,
DISCLAIMER
The OPINION / COLUMN is authored by independent contributors to the National Accord Newspaper. While contributors adhere to our editorial guidelines, they are not employed by the National Accord Newspaper. The perspectives and opinions expressed herein are solely those of the author and do not represent the views of the National Accord Newspaper or its staff.