International Girls in ICT Day (27 Apr)
International Girls in ICT Day, observed annually on the fourth Thursday of April, is a global initiative that aims to empower and encourage girls and young women to pursue careers in the field of information and communications technology (ICT). Proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2010, this day recognizes the critical role that girls play in shaping the digital future and the need to bridge the gender gap in the technology sector.
The theme for International Girls in ICT Day 2023 is “Access and Safety.” This theme highlights the importance of ensuring that girls have equal access to ICT tools and resources, as well as the need to address online safety concerns and create a safe and supportive environment for girls to thrive in the digital space.
Through this day, various initiatives and events are organized worldwide to promote ICT education among girls, provide opportunities for skill development, and showcase the achievements of women in the technology field. The goal is to inspire girls to embrace STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects, pursue careers in ICT, and become active participants in shaping the digital landscape.
International Girls in ICT Day also aims to raise awareness about the challenges and barriers that girls face in accessing ICT education and employment. By addressing these issues and promoting inclusivity, the day strives to create a more diverse and gender-balanced workforce in the technology sector.
Collaboration among governments, industry leaders, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and civil society is crucial for the success of International Girls in ICT Day. By working together, these stakeholders can create opportunities, provide mentorship and support, and advocate for policies that empower girls and young women to pursue careers in ICT.
Through the observance of International Girls in ICT Day, the United Nations and its partners hope to create a more inclusive and equitable digital world where girls and young women have the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in the field of technology and contribute to the digital transformation of societies.
Celebrating International Girls in ICT Day
The International Girls in ICT Day is celebrated globally to raise awareness about the gender digital divide and encourage more girls and young women to pursue careers in the technology sector. On this day, various events and initiatives are organized around the world to inspire and empower girls to embrace technology and innovation. These events often include:
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Workshops, seminars, and coding boot camps designed to introduce girls to the basics of programming, robotics, and other technical skills.
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Panel discussions and talks by successful women in technology, who share their experiences and journeys to encourage girls to break stereotypes and pursue their passions in STEM fields.
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Hackathons, coding competitions, and robotics challenges that provide girls with hands-on experience in solving real-world problems using technology.
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Exhibitions and showcases where girls can learn about the latest technological advancements, explore different career paths in ICT, and network with professionals in the field.
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Online campaigns, social media challenges, and webinars that aim to spread awareness about the importance of gender equality in technology and encourage girls to share their stories and aspirations.
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Mentorship programs and networking opportunities that connect girls with female role models and mentors who can provide guidance, support, and encouragement as they navigate their careers in technology.
These events and initiatives are organized by a diverse range of stakeholders, including governments, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, technology companies, and industry associations. By working together, these organizations aim to create a more inclusive and diverse technology sector where girls and young women have equal opportunities to succeed and contribute to the digital future.