WOMEN AFFAIRS CALLS FOR GENDER INCLUSION IN ICT
By: Felicia Kemi Adeyemi
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Women Affairs Secretariat has stressed the need for gender inclusion in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) space.
Head of the Adolescent Girls Department, Women Affairs Secretariat, Dr. Hauwa Aminu Wambai, made the call in Abuja during the 2025 Debate and Quiz competition organised by Plan International, a girls and children’s rights organisation, with the theme: ‘Girls in ICT’.
Dr. Wambai, delivering her goodwill message at the event, noted that, despite the perception of ICT as a male-dominated field, both boys and girls actively engage with digital platforms and should have equal opportunities to innovate and lead.
In her words: “ICT has long been perceived as a male-dominated field, but both boys and girls use the digital space and should both be involved in ICT”.
“However, we are proud to witness more girls boldly stepping into this space and proving that innovation knows no gender. We commend the efforts of Plan International, a committed non-governmental organisation, for its impactful partnership with the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat.
“Together, we are working to empower girls and women across the FCT, equipping them with the skills and confidence they need to thrive in the digital age. You have our continued support, and together, we can guide girls in the digital space.” She explained.
Dr Wambai also urged the girls to express their views confidently, emphasising that the competition was a platform for growth and learning, not just winning.
According to her, “It is just a competition, and it does not mean you are losers.”
Wisdom International School Sauka, Government Secondary School Nyanya, Noble Hall Leadership Academy for Girls, Light of Day School Kubwa, and Government Day Secondary School, Karu were some of the secondary schools selected across the FCT that participated in the competition.
The aim was to showcase the students’ knowledge, critical thinking, and literacy skills while engaging them in meaningful conversations about the role of technology in addressing pressing societal issues.
