The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has canvassed the need for stakeholders in the nation’s ICT sector to create a supportive environment in schools and workplaces to encourage more girls to pursue careers in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
The Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, made this call to action during the “e-business life” event held to celebrate this year’s Information and Communication Technology Day.
Represented at the event by the commission’s Head of Corporate Communications, Nnenna Ukoha, the EVC harped on the significance of education and networking opportunities that would enable more girls in the country to overcome barriers and succeed in the rapidly evolving ICT space.
Maida highlighted the need for diversity and inclusion in the ICT sector, reiterating the importance of mentoring programmes and activities that give girls the opportunity to learn about the world, thereby enabling them to show their interests and gain confidence to pursue ICT-related careers.
In addition, the EVC outlined concrete measures that would help to address gender equality issues in technology sector and encourage more girls to participate in the digital economy.
According to him, the measures aim to foster a supportive environment, mentoring, and networking opportunities to raise a generation of tech-savvy girls who will contribute to innovation and economic growth in Nigeria and beyond.
The industry regulator maintained that as the world celebrates Girls’ Day in ICT every year, such events serve as a catalyst to promote equality and create opportunities for girls to succeed in the exciting and rewarding fields of information technology and communications.
He stated that by emphasizing the importance of mentorship and supportive environments, the commission was taking a proactive step towards empowering girls and women in the tech industry, ensuring a more diverse and inclusive future for Nigerian youths.
