15 May 2023
International Telecommunication Union in the CIS region, in collaboration with partners including the Ministry of Education and Science of the Kyrgyz Republic, the Ministry of Digital Development of the Kyrgyz Republic, and the Internet Society Kyrgyz Chapter, celebrated Girls in ICT Day in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on April 27th. The event, titled "Information Technology Opportunities for Girls in Central Asia," successfully held in hybrid format, drawing an enthusiastic participation of over 200 participants from various regions in Central Asia.
The forum served as a platform for local and international experts in the ICT field to engage in enlightening discussions covering a diverse array of topics. These discussions encompassed areas such as the launching satellites into space, the art of mastering artificial intelligence, insights into the prospects of IT professions, leveraging social media for beneficial purposes, financial e-literacy in the modern landscape, and a myriad of other engrossing subjects.
The event's primary objective was to globally celebrate the "International Girls in Information and Communication Technologies" Day, observed in 195 countries. It focused on inspiring and motivating youth, particularly girls in remote rural areas, to pursue technology education, fostering inclusivity and addressing the gender digital divide. The forum aimed to support STEM education, digital skills, empower girls, and encourage careers in information technology.
Other highlights from the region: - The Belarusian State Academy of Communications actively participates in annual Girls in ICTs (Information and Communication Technology) Day, organizing open lessons on "Girls in ICT: cybersecurity" in Minsk.
- UNDP (United Nations Development Program) with ITU’s input published a nationwide assessment on the gender digital divide in Uzbekistan, providing key recommendations for governments and international agencies. Access the report here.
Natalia Mochu, ITU Regional Director for CIS Region warmly extended her welcome to the participants of the Regional event in Kyrgyzstan, emphasizing the boundless capabilities inherently possessed by girls. She affirmed their complete empowerment and active engagement in the digital world while acknowledging their unique talents and their relentless pursuit of essential knowledge. During her address to the Forum, Indira Janusakovna Sharshenova, the Deputy Minister of Digital Development of the Kyrgyz Republic, shed light on the limitless potential held by girls in the ICT field. She emphasized the necessity to ensure modern technology is accessible to girls residing in remote rural areas, to educate citizens in information technology skills across all regions of the country, to promote inclusivity and equal access to digital opportunities.
In continuation of its commitment to addressing the gender digital divide, ITU is working to organize trainings for girls aimed at bridging this gap in the CIS region. Additionally, a digital gender divide research in Kyrgyzstan is under development, the report will shed light on the specific challenges and opportunities faced by girls in accessing and utilizing information and communication technologies. Based on this research, policy recommendations will be proposed to the government to further enhance inclusivity, educational opportunities, and socio-economic empowerment for girls in the digital sphere.
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