by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Development Communication Network (DevComs) says there is the need to improve in collaborations across sectors to bridge the gender gap and ensure equality and access to digital skills in Nigeria.
As the world celebrates the 2023 International Women’s Day, Development Communications Network has also called on civil society organizations, women movements, and other stakeholders to come together for the achievement of the key approaches proposed in several reports upon which the 2023 celebration is based.
A statement, signed by DevComs Head of Programs, Omobonike Adebayo, and issued to newsmen on Tuesday, indicated that to achieve the 2023 theme, ‘DigitAll: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality,’ it requires intentional actions from all stakeholders.
According to the statement, Women in Africa and, especially Nigeria, have suffered all forms of discriminations and denial such as lack of access to healthcare services, business and entrepreneurship opportunities and use of digital technology.
It observed that, while women represent more than half of the global population, they are still under-represented in the digital sector, especially in developing countries like Nigeria.
He said, with the current situation in Nigeria, it has become pertinent to acquire knowledge and digital technology skills due to the numerous benefits for individuals, businesses and organizations, which transcend the promotion of equal opportunities for both genders; access to digital skills is also of economic significance.
While considering some of the significant benefits of digital skills, it gives women access to better and improved financial services and enable them make informed financial decisions. It is useful to female business owners to enable them stay ahead of competition and exploit opportunities such as in e-commerce.
The Head of Programs added that, “Likewise, women in agriculture can access more advanced agricultural techniques, just as this year’s theme focuses on how technology and education in the digital age can help the empowerment of women and girls across the world.
“It can enhance gender-equality; open up opportunities to access education virtually, while also accessing better healthcare systems and a healthy life.”
DevComs also calls on CSOs, NGOs and experts from the fields of technology and innovation, as well as gender equality activists to channel more efforts towards improving access to digital tools and bridging the digital skills gap among women and girls.
“This, we believe, will contribute to ensuring that all people, especially women and girls have equal access to digital technology and the opportunities it provides.”
