Girls are being encouraged to acquire skills in Artificial Intelligence (AI), as women continue to be underrepresented in the digital and technology sectors.
This initiative was highlighted during this year’s International Girls in ICT Day, which featured a school debate on the topic “Will Artificial Intelligence Empower or Disadvantage Girls in the Digital Age?” The event was organized by the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Rivers State in partnership with Cinfores Limited at Marian High School, Bane, located in Khana Local Government Area.
At the event, FIDA Rivers Chairperson Tamunoibuemi Life-George expressed that the goal is to motivate girls to envision themselves as leaders, innovators, and creators within the digital space, while also building their confidence to shape their futures.
She emphasized through FIDA Secretary Okorite Yobo that AI has the potential to empower girls, insisting that technology and digital skills should not be exclusively reserved for boys.
Life-George pointed out FIDA’s increasing focus on rural areas, stating, “We chose to come to Khana Local Government Area, particularly Bane, to reach these girls. ICT is here to stay, and we won’t leave anyone behind. Our core mission is promoting, preserving, and empowering girls and women.”
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She also addressed the existing gender gap in technology: “Women are falling behind in ICT and other fields. It’s vital to ignite interest in technology from an early age. Fortunately, our partners at Cinfores provided a brand-new laptop to one of the girls as a highlight of our visit.”
Winnie Nnadi, Performance Test Officer at Cinfores Limited, urged girls to pursue careers in ICT as a way to close the gender gap in the tech industry.
“Girls can thrive in ICT if they dedicate themselves to it. Leadership positions in AI, cybersecurity, and other tech fields remain largely male-dominated; however, awareness and guidance can shift this dynamic,” she stated.
Mrs. Maria Patta, Vice-Principal of Marian High School, expressed gratitude towards the organizers for raising awareness among students about the significance of the digital space.
She also shared some challenges facing the school including limited funding, lack of a school bus, and deteriorating infrastructure, while appealing for support from philanthropists, government officials, and alumni.
In interviews with participating students, they voiced their appreciation for FIDA and Cinfores for providing this opportunity and committed to utilizing their newfound knowledge and resources as they pursue careers in ICT.
This year’s International Girls in ICT Day carried the theme “AI for Development: Girls Shaping the Digital Future.”
Our correspondent report that students actively participated in the debate, discussing the benefits and challenges of AI. JSS2 students emerged victorious in the debate, prizes including cash, laptops, digital items, and exercise books were given to winners.
