As the world celebrates International Women's
Day, the Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU),
Doreen Bogdan-Martin has acknowledged the persistent challenges faced by women
and girls, particularly in the tech sector.
Embracing this year's theme, "Invest in
Women: Accelerate Progress," the ITU is using this occasion to stress the
crucial role it plays as the key United Nations digital agency.
It recognizes that the obstacles hindering women
and girls from active participation in the technology ecosystem must be addressed
comprehensively. The vision is clear: a future where women engage actively and
equally in the digital world, equipped with affordable digital devices, access
to data, online safety, and the necessary skills to navigate and lead
confidently, she noted.
Bogdan-Martin's call to action is not limited to
International Women's Day; instead, it resonates as a commitment to invest in
this future every single day. The ITU urges a collective effort to accelerate
progress, highlighting the pivotal role gender equality plays in shaping a
sustainable digital future.
To achieve this vision, the ITU Secretary-General
emphasizes the need for tangible investments that go beyond mere rhetoric.
Affordability of digital devices and access to data are identified as essential
components, ensuring that women are not excluded from the benefits of the
digital age. Simultaneously, online safety measures must be strengthened to
create an inclusive environment where women feel secure to explore, innovate,
and contribute.
Crucially, investing in the necessary skills for
women to navigate and lead in the digital world is highlighted as a fundamental
step. This requires targeted efforts in education and professional development
to bridge the existing gender gap in the tech industry. By doing so, women can
actively participate in shaping the future of technology, bringing diverse
perspectives and insights to the forefront.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
