President of the association, Dr. Elizabeth Eterigho, gave the charge yesterday, at an event tagged ‘DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality’ to mark the International Women’s Day.
According to her, there is a need to create an environment where women feel welcome and supported in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) field, as well as have access to education, mentorship, networking opportunities, equal pay and opportunities for advancement.
She stated that if women were excluded in ICT, it means a future without the input, vision and perspective of much of the citizenry.
This, she said, is a problem not only for women, but also for society as a whole, as women miss out on the creativity and unique perspectives they could bring to relevant fields.
Her words: “Women hold only two in every 10 science, engineering and ICT jobs globally. They comprise only 16.5 per cent of inventors associated with a patent. Despite proven equality of ability and, at times, better performances in science and technology courses by female youths. The country has not actually tapped into their potential.
“This is why APWEN is creating an environment where women feel welcomed and supported, where they have access to education and training, mentorship and networking, and opportunities for advancement, even in the digital world. APWEN is working to break down the barriers and ensure that women are not left behind in the technological revolution.”
The guest speaker, Dr. Yinka Jinadu, also encouraged women to be technology-compliant, learn new skills and utilise online training modules on any concern.
She observed that every woman is capable of doing one thing well in the digital world, if they attempt.
The forum recognised the Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, as APWEN’s IWD Role Model Muffler. Mrs. Olamide Falana represented the governor.
