By Ephraim Munhuwei
Women leaders play a pivotal role in shaping girls interest and success in information, communication and technology through their initiatives aimed at empowering young minds to explore science, engineering, technology and mathematics subjects confidently.
At the commemoration of Girls in ICT day ICTs, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera said programs led by women had contributed to increasing girls’ participation in technology-related disciplines.
“Programs led by women had contributed to increasing girls’ participation in technology-related discipline. Such initiatives not enhanced diversity, but also elevated overall innovation and creativity”, said Minister Mavetera.
She added that there are some challenges that thwart progress that exist within the women’s advancement processes.
“Despite progress made towards promoting female leadership in ICTs there are inherent challenges that exist, which impede women’s advancement into leadership positions within the industry.
“Gender bias, lack of equal opportunities for career progression, limited access to networks or resources are some of common obstacles that faced by women aspiring for leadership roles”, said Minister Mavetera.
She highlighted some measures to eradicate these challenges saying, “To address these challenges effectively, organisations must prioritise implementing inclusive practices that ensure equal representation and recognition for talented individuals regardless of gender.
“Fostering culture that embraces female leadership is essential for creating a more equitable workforce within the ICT sector”, said Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services.
The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Dr Torerai Moyo said the Second Republic of Zimbabwe is promoting ICT education for all students regardless of their gender.
“We must collaborate with the private sector, academia and civil society to create internship programs, scholarships and industry partnerships that expose girls to real world applications of ICTs, thereby preparing our girls for the challenges and opportunities of the future”, said Minister Moyo.
