On April 22nd, Broken Chalk joins the global community to reflect on International Girls in ICT Day. This annual event represents an opportunity for organisations, policymakers, education personnel, and families to consider why we need such a day and how we can bridge the gap between boys’ and girls’ futures in tech careers.
The world is becoming increasingly digital as new technologies transform how we live, work, think, and connect. More and more academic fields welcome digital innovations and many careers become tech-related. However, girls are still under-represented and under considered in the ICT world. Many young women are hindered from reaching their full potential and interest in digital fields by cultural and social obstacles such as stereotypes, a lack of role models, and a lack of resources.
The digital gender gap refers to gender biases in accessing technological products and careers. It also relates to gaps in digital skills, participation in STEM fields, and tech sector presencei. Globally, in 2022, Internet usage among men stood at 62%, while among women, it was 57%ii. Moreover, women from low- and middle-income countries are 15 percent less likely to use mobile internet compared to meniii. In higher education, women are under-represented underrepresented in STEM programs as they make up only 35% of student bodiesiv. The World Bank has financed and strategized gender-intentional initiatives to bridge the digital divide. Such programs include working together with tech firms to ensure equal access and use, while incorporating online safety precautions; creating digital skills training camps specifically aimed at women in isolated communities; and investigating financing alternatives for affordable mobile devices aimed at aiding women with limited financial resourcesv.
Broken Chalk acknowledges the imperative necessity to bridge the digital gender gap and join the World Bank and other international organizations to raise awareness about the phenomenon. We believe in the power and influence of education in ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to gain digital skills, build confidence in tech sectors, and develop an interest in STEM areas. However, education does not exist in a vacuum, and we call on communities and policy-makers to create more spaces for young girls in ICT. Providing girls with ICT knowledge goes beyond career pathways; it’s about equipping future leaders, problem-solvers, and changemakers for a digital world.