Girls in Information and Communication Technologies Day
23 April 2020
Our world today faces an unprecedented threat from COVID-19. The complexity of this global emergency has particularly shed a light on the importance of digital technology in maintaining our business continuity, as well as allowing us to connect with our personal and professional communities.
Now more than ever, the Girls in Information and Communication Technologies Day should serve as a call to action to inspire girls and young women to learn more about the amazing opportunities offered by ICTs.
Digital technology has proven to be a key driver of economic growth, social inclusion and sustainable development. Yet despite rapid progress, we know that there is a shortage of young people – and in particular, girls – studying in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields.
Limited access to quality education, affordability, as well as inherent biases and cultural norms may prevent girls from entering such fields.
We need to step up the pace to foster stronger cooperation across stakeholders to remove barriers to girls and women’s full participation in the digital world.
As governments prepare for indefinite school closures, policy makers and practitioners can look to lessons from past crises to address the specific challenges faced by girls. Tangible actions are needed to protect progress made and create gender-responsive and context-specific educational environments that engage and inspire girls to pursue a career in ICT.
Especially in times like these, we must make sure that girls are provided with the right knowledge, skills and creative minds to secure their meaningful participation in the digital economy.
The world will get through this crisis, but only if we act together.
