International Girls in ICT Day 2024 in Nigeria, Highlights need to promote technology careers for women

International Girls in ICT Day 2024 in Nigeria is an annual event that takes place on the fourth Thursday of April. The objective of this initiative is to highlight the significance of girls in the field of Information and Communications Technology (ICT). The purpose of this festival is to promote increased participation of girls and young women in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). On April 25th, 2023, we commemorate this day to acknowledge and value the historical and meaningful aspects of ICT.

ICT stands for Information and Communication Technology.

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) encompasses the various tools and technologies utilized for the purpose of sharing, storing, and generating information. This encompasses various aspects of digital communication, including the internet (such as social media, websites, blogs, and emails), computers, broadcasting technologies (such as audio and video players, storage devices, and podcasting), and telephony (such as phones and video calls).

The theme for International Girls in ICT Day 2024 is yet to be announced.

International Girls in ICT Day, which falls on April 25, 2024, aims to encourage technological competency with a focus on the topic “Digital Skills for Life.”

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The history of International Girls in ICT Day

The Conceptualization of Computers: Charles Babbage’s Notions

In 1822, Charles Babbage, an English engineer, invented the inaugural mechanical computer known as the “Difference Engine.” It performed elementary computations. Babbage desired further advancements, therefore he conceived the Analytical Engine in 1833, a highly intelligent computing device for its era. Regrettably, the project was never realized due to insufficient financial backing.

Ada Lovelace and the Field of Computer Programming

In 1843, Augusta Ada King, also known as Ada Lovelace, provided a detailed explanation of the Analytical Engine in a scholarly work. She achieved a remarkable feat by composing the inaugural computer program in the world. She utilized punched cards to program the Analytical Engine and direct its operations. This established the foundation for computer programming.

The topic of discussion is ENIAC and the early women programmers.

The Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC), the first electronic programmable computer, was created in 1945 in the United States. Remarkably, it was the “ENIAC girls,” a group of six women, who were responsible for programming the ENIAC. This demonstrates that women were involved in the field of computing from its inception.

Significant Advancements in Technology

During the period spanning from the mid-20th century to the early 21st century, there were significant advancements in the field of computers. Innovations such as transistors, COBOL, FORTRAN, UNIX, floppy disks, and Ethernet significantly enhanced the capabilities of computers. During this period, prominent technology corporations such as INTEL, I.B.M., Apple, and Microsoft emerged.

The emergence of portable computers and mobile phones

During the early 2000s, computers underwent a transformation, becoming compact and easily transportable. This facilitated portability for individuals. Furthermore, it resulted in the development of contemporary mobile phones.

The Significance of International Girls in ICT Day 2024 in Nigeria

Technology is ubiquitous.

Technology plays a significant role in our lives, and its influence is always expanding. Technology will play a crucial role in shaping the future economy. Hence, it is crucial for females to pursue careers in the field of technology and fully exploit the benefits and possibilities it offers. In addition, technology can assist in narrowing the disparity between males and females.

Promoting the participation of girls in the field of technology

International Girls in ICT Day promotes and motivates young women to pursue jobs in the field of technology. Special activities provide females with knowledge about technology and the diverse range of employment opportunities it offers. Female technology executives are sharing their personal experiences to motivate and empower the future generation of girls and young women in the field of technology.

Enabling through proactive measures
This festival resulted in the establishment of initiatives aimed at facilitating the education and development of girls and young women in the field of technology. Organizations such as the United Nations, Cisco, and Microsoft have dedicated initiatives to provide assistance and resources for females who aspire to pursue jobs in the field of technology.

In conclusion,

International Girls in ICT Day highlights the significant contribution that girls make in the field of technology. By commemorating this day, we pay tribute to the historical events and motivate the forthcoming generations. By acknowledging the importance of girls in information and communication technology (ICT) and promoting education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), we can foster a technology industry that is more inclusive and varied.

April 25, 2024: A Significant Occasion

The International Girls in ICT Day, celebrated on April 25th, serves as a significant occasion for women’s advocacy groups across the globe to demonstrate their optimism by acknowledging the advancements made and actively striving for gender equality in the field of technology. On the fourth Thursday of April, international organizations join together to promote and support girls in their exploration of the important field of information and communications technology.

The early arrival of 2024’s special day is an ideal occasion to establish ambitious goals for female participation in STEM fields, reassess educational objectives, and reignite optimism for a future where women play an equal role in driving technical progress. This event provides an opportunity to generate global momentum for promoting positive transformation by ensuring that all parties involved acknowledge the potential of girls to succeed in science, engineering, and innovation when provided with the chance.