Dr. Aminah Zawedde, permanent secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance has called for increased efforts to bridge the persistent gender gap in technology. Her remarks came during International Girls in ICT Day celebrations at the Uganda Institute of Communication and Technology in Nakawa.
Dr. Zawedde, delivered a keynote address, commending the establishment of International Girls in ICT Day hosted by Uganda Communications Commission (UCC). She emphasized its importance in recognizing women’s contributions to the field and inspiring future female tech leaders.
Addressing the day’s theme, “Girls in ICT for inclusive digital transformation now,” Zawedde underscored the potential of ICT and encouraged girls to actively engage with technology. “As young people, avoid saying you do things ‘just because.’ Instead, do things that build and grow you,” she said, sharing her experience in ICT.
Zawedde contrasted the limited information access of her generation with today’s internet opportunities. “You have the chance to be nurtured by the world. A wealth of information from across the globe is available, allowing you to learn and improve yourselves without needing to physically travel there. Seize these opportunities while you are young,” she said.
Zawedde outlined three goals of Girls in ICT Day: encouraging STEM education, inspiring innovation for community solutions, and fostering collaboration. She cited examples like Uber and SafeBoda. She also urged girls to identify local problems, like the time-consuming process of milling posho, and consider tech solutions.
On inclusivity, Zawedde said the focus on girls in ICT counters gender stereotypes. “All of us are capable with the will and interest,” she said.
Zawedde also noted the government’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 5. However, she cautioned girls about online dangers like cyberbullying and urged responsible digital citizenship. She mentioned cyberbullying in school WhatsApp groups and the importance of a positive online presence.
Zawedde concluded by reaffirming the ministry’s support for girls in STEM and ICT, saying, “The digital age is not just the future; it is the present.” She encouraged active participation and responsible innovation.
Uganda Communications Commission Executive Director Nyombi Tembo called for sustained efforts to close the gender technology gap.
Tembo stressed the urgent need to encourage girls and young women to pursue STEM careers. He noted the annual ITU initiative as crucial for inspiring female participation in key global economic sectors.
Tembo cited ITU data indicating that women comprise less than 30% of STEM professionals globally. He also pointed to the educational disparity, with one female student for every two male students in university STEM programs, and the significant digital divide affecting women’s access to the internet and mobile phones.
“International Girls in ICT Day is more than just an observance; it is a pressing call to action that demands our collective and sustained commitment,” Tembo said. He highlighted the UCC’s support for digital literacy training and mentorship programs for girls in STEM.
Tembo referenced a 2020 UCC study showing a link between a lack of digital skills and the widening gender digital divide. The study found that boys showed greater proficiency in online tasks, with only 14.8% of girls able to verify online information credibility, compared to 22.2% of boys.
Tembo detailed the UCC’s nationwide outreach program providing hands-on learning opportunities for girls, led by Greenbridge School of Technologies. He thanked participating educational institutions.
Tembo noted the participation of two students with disabilities from Gulu High School, facilitated by the Uganda Communications Universal Service and Access Fund, emphasizing digital accessibility.
Tembo called for a unified effort involving government, educators, parents, the private sector, and civil society to support girls in tech and science. “We simply cannot afford to build a truly inclusive digital economy — or a just society — if we leave behind half of our population,” Tembo said.
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