Virtual Roundtable
THEME: “Digital Inclusion: Bridging the Gender Gap in Technology”
“Information and communication technologies are not a panacea or magic formula, but they can improve the lives of everyone on this planet.” – Kofi Annan, 2005
BACKGROUND
Information Technology oriented fields are still largely male dominated, according to UNESCO report in 2016, only 30% of the Sub-Saharan technology workforce are women.
The effective approach for increasing the number of women in natural science and technology careers have not yet been achieved in African countries.
It is clear that Information Technology will continue to significantly impact all societies worldwide, in all economic, social, and cultural aspects especially education. The knowledge economy is demanding new types of learners and administrators. New technologies are changing modes of learning, collaboration and expressions. The Internet is a driving force for development and innovation in both developed and developing countries.
INTRODUCTION
The Roundtable discussion would be used to find sustainable solution to the growing challenge of getting more women into technology. It would create a fora to investigate and share vital knowledge on how to increase girls’ access to and interest in digital and technology education, and to also add to our understanding of what affects women’s interests in entering technology-related careers in Nigeria.
This fora will bring together individuals representing notable and credible Organizations in Nonprofits, Government Institutions and For-Profit Organizations active in the Technology industry to discuss ways to bridge the gender gap in Africa.
PURPOSE OF THE ROUNDTABLE
This proposed roundtable will highlight key issues relating to girls in technology, identify their attributes and place these issues within a framework to stimulate discussions. The discussions will center on six thematic topics:
1) The barriers involved in girls’ access and use of technology.
2) Inadequate infrastructures in place.
3) Challenges of digital inclusion in a rural setting and proffering possible solutions.
4) Government institution and private organization roles in bridging the gender gap.
5) Girls interest in Technology as a tool to strengthen the drive for digital inclusion.
6) Making digital inclusion a priority in a rapidly expanding Technology serving world.
The core objectives of the roundtable are to:
a) Review, share and exchange views, ideas, knowledge and experiences regarding girls in technology.
b) Highlight the factors that promote or inhibit girls’ participation in technology.
c) Develop progressive strategies on how to effectively bridge the gender gap.
