Girls in ICT Day 2022: Priority is on access and safety says ITU - ITREALMS

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The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) celebrated International Girls in ICT Day, observed annually during the last week of April, with a focus on ‘Access and Safety’ reports ITREALMS.S

ITU also said that was part of its key elements to engage the next generation with information and communication technology (ICT), even as it partnered with interests worldwide to foster STEM learning, engagement, and careers for girls.

This year’s theme reflects the world’s shared interest in empowering youth and girls to safely benefit from an active digital life.

ITU recognizes the need to ensure girls and women enjoy equal access to digital learning opportunities, particularly in least developed countries.

According to ITU's latest data, globally, 57 per cent of women use the Internet compared to 62 per cent of men. And worldwide only 30 per cent of tech science and technology professionals are women.

"If women are unable to access the Internet and do not feel safe online, they are unable to develop the necessary digital skills and engage in digital spaces, which diminishes their opportunities to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) related fields," ITU officials said in a press statement available to ITREALMS.

“Girls in ICT Day is a call to action to inspire the next generation of young women and girls to enter STEM careers," said ITU Secretary-General Houlin Zhao.

Further, he said, “I call on all government, business, university leaders and others to do their utmost to support young women and girls and give them the chance to achieve their dreams."

Nenye Dom/Editor