Ethiopia urges more effort to get women into ICT sector
GOVERNMENT
By BiztechAfrica – May 20, 2012, 9:47 a.m.
The Ethiopian Government has called for more extensive engagement with government and private sector stakeholders, to attract more women to enter the technology sector.
In a statement marking World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Communication and Information Technology called for wide-ranging efforts to close both the digital divide and the gender gap.
“All people must be able to make the best use of information and communications technology to help create the future we want.”
The MCIT said: “To this effect, the Ministry is determined to harness the full potential of ICTs for the benefit of women and girls by eliminating gender disparities and empowering them to meet their goals and aspirations.”
“Despite the obvious benefits, many girls never even consider a career in ICTs. There is a lack of awareness among students, teachers and parents on what a career in ICT could offer.
Attitudes can change when girls are invited into companies and government agencies to meet ICT professionals and see what life is like on the job. In this regard, extensive engagement with government and private sector stakeholders, to attract greater participation of girls in the technology sector is very important.”