The President of Internet Society, Nigeria Chapter (ISOC Nigeria), Engr. Kunle Olorundare has officially declared the ISOC Nigeria 2024 International Girls in ICT Day open, paving the way for a day filled with learning, empowerment, and the exploration of limitless potential in the exciting world of technology.
The event was organized in a hybrid session which was the first segment before decentralizing into the physical hubs in Ogun State, Sokoto State, Adamawa State, Plateau State, FCT and Cross River State where the physical hubs were held. In all, 600 girls graced the occasion physically.
Speaking at the event, which brought together students, educators, and industry leaders to empower young women and ignite their passion for technology, Engr. Olorundare noted that the Girls in ICT Day stands as a beacon of empowerment and inspiration for the young women who will shape the future of the tech industry, not just in Nigeria, but globally.
The theme for this year’s International Girls in ICT Day is ‘leadership’ and is chosen by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU).
“The Internet Society Nigeria Chapter is excited to work with this theme, recognizing the vital role women can play as leaders in the dynamic fields of Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and Information and Communication Technology (ICT),” he said.
According to the Chapter’s President, International Girls in ICT Day is a celebration of girls’ potential to bridge the global gender gap in ICT, where women hold only 40% of high-skill positions.
The International Girls in ICT Day event featured esteemed guests who serve as role models for aspiring tech enthusiasts. Anna Amooma, ISOC President of Namibia, shared her experiences in her session dubbed, “Live Dialogue”. Dr. Munirat Antoinette Lecky, a prominent educator, offered words of inspiration in her session titled, “Empowering the Young Girls”, while Erica Okibe, Executive Secretary of the Ndukwe Kalu Foundation, showcased the importance of mentoring young minds through her session on E-mentorship.
Olorundare expressed gratitude to partner organizations like NEWIT (Northeast Women in Technology), the Ndukwe Kalu Foundation, and the Nigeria Computer Society, Plateau State Chapter, whose collaborative efforts added colour to the national event.
Also, the focus of the day remained on the young women in attendance. Olorundare encouraged them to be inspired, ask questions, and embrace challenges as stepping stones to leadership and innovation.
He declared, “Today is the beginning of your journey towards a future brimming with possibilities. Let us ignite a passion for technology within you, and together, let us shape the digital landscape with women leading the charge!”