The Forum for African Women Educationalists, Ghana chapter (FAWE Ghana), a Non-governmental Organisation, has urged the government to prioritize investment in girls and young women to help bridge the gender gap in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
In a statement released to mark this year’s International Girls in ICT Day, themed “leadership,” FAWE Ghana emphasized the importance of ICT as a crucial tool for narrowing the gender digital divide. Empowering girls and young women in ICT, according to the organization, will not only balance the socioeconomic and political development of the country but also ensure inclusivity and equal opportunities for all.
The statement further highlighted the gender disparities in the ICT sector, citing statistics from the International Technology Union. Only 21% of ICT ministers globally are women, while 32 out of 165 ICT regulators are led by women. Additionally, women make up only 22% of AI workers worldwide, and in the private sector, women technologists hold less than a third of positions and face a 21% pay gap.
FAWE Ghana stressed the need for a concerted effort to empower more girls and young women in ICT, focusing not only on equipping them with technical skills but also nurturing their leadership qualities. The organization called for equal opportunities and remuneration for women vying for leadership roles in ICT institutions, both in the public and private sectors.
As the world continues to witness digital transformation and the emergence of innovative technological tools, FAWE Ghana reiterated its commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to advance the role of girls and women in the ICT sector. The organization emphasized the collective responsibility in bridging the gender gap in ICT and empowering more women to take up key positions in the industry.
On Girls in ICT Day, FAWE Ghana called for greater mentorship and empowerment for girls and young women in ICT, underscoring the importance of female role models in STEM careers.
The organization underscored the significance of female representation in policy-making decisions within the ICT sector and pledged to work towards achieving gender equality and inclusivity in the digital space.
