The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and other stakeholders have talked up the importance of investing in young girls for future tech careers. This call was made during the 12th edition of the International Girls in ICT Day organized by eBusiness Life Communication Limited in Lagos.
Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NCC, urged girls to stay updated with technology trends and strive for excellence to make a difference in the workforce of the future. He highlighted the significance of encouraging girls to pursue ICT careers, stressing the need for their perspectives in shaping technology standards.
Maida encouraged girls to explore various career opportunities in the ICT sector, including software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. He also promoted the Federal Government’s 3MTT initiative, which aims to provide technology career opportunities for young Nigerians in areas such as AI/Machine Learning and Data Analysis.
Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary General of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), stressed the importance of leadership in ICT, urging girls to harness the power of innovation and navigate change with confidence.
Mrs. Jumoke Alaka, Manager of the South-West Zonal office of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), highlighted the numerous opportunities in the ICT sector and advised girls to utilize technology positively while avoiding its negative aspects. She also encouraged parents to guide their children on the beneficial use of ICT gadgets.
Oluwatobi Ayeni, Digital Strategist and Founder of ‘MissTechy’, encouraged girls to be curious and explore ICT, hailing the role of curiosity in driving initiatives and filling gaps in technology.
Dr. (Mrs.) Ochuko Ibe, CEO of MyHealthHub, challenged girls to use technology to address societal needs, drawing from her experience in bridging medical gaps in rural areas.
Mrs. Ufuoma Emuophedaro, Convener of Girls-In-ICT/CEO of e-Business Life Communication Limited, highlighted the growing demand for ICT skills and the career opportunities available for girls in the sector.
The event, attended by 170 students from 17 schools across Lagos and Ogun States, aimed to inspire girls to pursue ICT careers and empower them for leadership roles in STEM fields.
