Women in the technology sector are calling for deliberate efforts to increase the teaching and learning of technological skills among females, underscoring the need for early exposure, curriculum reforms, and financial support.
During the March edition of Ed-Tech Monday on Citi FM on Monday, March 31, a discussion themed ‘Bridging the Gap in EdTech: Women Leading Innovation’ brought together three key stakeholders in the tech space.
The panel stressed the importance of proactive measures to equip more girls with technological skills and bridge the gender gap in the industry.
Maud Tsagli, Country IT Manager for Plan International Ghana, highlighted the need to introduce technology education at an early age and called for a review of Ghana’s educational curriculum to align with modern technological advancements.
“Can we look at introducing our children to robotics early? Some of these tools are not too expensive, and as for our educational system, we have to relook it. Things are changing and we need another way of thinking and we need to introduce IT clubs, competitions, and project works in our schools and in organisations, let us give women a chance to shine.”
Software developer Joy Tari-Bagshaw advocated for subsidies and financial aid for girls interested in acquiring IT skills, stressing that financial barriers often prevent young women from entering the tech field.
“For organisations, I know it will be nice if they can train girls in tech for free because some of the girls don’t have funds to pay for classes and so if there is funding, training can be given out for free to make sure that women are empowered.”
Sarah Odei-Amoani, Executive Director of STEM Inclusion Ghana, echoed the call for increased investment in female-led tech education.
She urged both government and private individuals to step up their support for women pursuing careers in technology.
“There are women in tech and with the requisite support, we can increase these numbers and we urge governments and individuals to help in training more girls in tech.”
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