International Girls in ICT Day

International Girls in ICT Day History

International Girls in ICT Day aims to encourage and empower girls and young women to consider studies and careers in the field of information and communication technologies (ICT). This global initiative is key to introducing girls to the prospects of technology-related fields and highlighting the importance and relevance of digital literacy, especially amongst girls who may face barriers due to gender stereotypes or lack of opportunities.

International Girls in ICT Day traces its history back to 2010 when the ITU established it with the goal of promoting gender equality in the ICT sector. The significant connection to Canadians lies with the acknowledgement that diversity is central to innovation. In Canada, despite women representing more than half of the population, they make up less than 25% of those employed in the tech sector. The observance of International Girls in ICT Day attempts to bring about change in this gender imbalance, emphasizing that inclusivity in technology and the digital world is pivotal for Canada's aim to lead the global stage in tech advancements.

In Canada, numerous initiatives take place across the country to engage girls in ICT. Schools, non-profit organizations, and tech companies often host workshops, lectures, and mentoring sessions to inspire and educate girls about the myriad of career opportunities in the ICT sector. Exhibitions and demonstrations of recent ICT advancements also take place. International Girls in ICT Day is generally celebrated on the fourth Thursday in April each year, highlighting Canada's innovative potential and technological progress.

Facts about International Girls in ICT Day

• The theme for International Girls in ICT Day in 2024 was Leadership.The theme in 2023 was Digital Skills for Life.
• According to unwomen.org, about 65% of the children around the world who are entering primary school today will have jobs that do not yet exist.
• Women hold only 25% of all the jobs in the tech industry, despite making up more than half of the workforce.
• The day is also significant in highlighting the various support systems available for girls and women in the country, such as Canadian non-profit organizations like "Girls Who Code" and "Ladies Learning Code", which aim to reduce the gender gap in technology fields.
• The Canadian government has targeted increasing the participation of women in the digital economy as part of its Innovation and Skills Plan, aiming for equal representation by 2030.

In the News and Trending in Canada for International Girls in ICT Day

Top things to do in Canada for International Girls in ICT Day

• Discover events around you. The International Telecommunication Union hosts events around the world so be sure to check for any upcoming ones.
• Listen to a podcast with the founder of the Women in Science International League Dr. Nisreen El-Hashemite.
• What are some good movies or Documentaries to watch about Girls in ICT in Canada?
  1) Silicon Valley’s Gender Gap – This CNBC documentary includes some information about Canadian efforts to attract more women to the ICT sector.
  2) Sisters in Sweat – While this isn't strictly about girls in ICT, it does feature a roster of successful women sharing their own personal stories to inspire the next generation. It's a great resource for girls looking for inspiration in any sector.
• Engage with organizations like Girl Geek Academy or DigiGirlz by Microsoft which runs ICT programs for girls and may hold special events on International Girls in ICT Day.