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The National Information Technology Development Authority (NITDA) on Wednesday launched a women founder training program to ensure inclusivity and bridge the gender gap in technology.
The training was initiated by the Nigeria Digital Innovation Authority (ONDI), a subsidiary of NITDA, Abuja.
NITDA Executive Director Yoshifumi Inuwa said at the launch of the training program that it is part of efforts to deepen digital literacy and equip women with the skills needed in the technology ecosystem.
She said the initiative aims to support and empower women to leverage digital technologies to build viable and scalable businesses.
“This training program is dedicated to discovering and highlighting innovative and technology-based concepts, ideas and solutions created by Nigerian women.
“The goal is to close the gender gap in the technology industry and facilitate the creation of digital job opportunities for women,” he said.
Inuwa recalled that within two weeks of announcing the call for participants, they received 7,151 applications from across the state.
She said there was overwhelming interest highlighting the untapped potential and enthusiasm of Nigerian women in the technology sector.
“The response to our call was excellent and participants underwent a meticulous three-stage selection process to ensure we have the best talent for the programme.
“At the end of this rigorous process, we are proud to announce that 12 successful candidates have emerged, who have been strategically selected to represent each of the six geopolitical zones.” he added.
She further said that the idea involves identifying and showcasing innovative technology-based ideas and solutions developed by Nigerian women.
The agency said it will promote and support technology-based ventures founded by women that bridge the gender gap that exists in the technology ecosystem.
Mr. Inuwa was represented by Dr. Amina Sambo Magaji from the Ministry of Agriculture. Director of Digital Literacy and Capacity Building.
Yakubu Moussa, National Coordinator of Ag. ONDI, also acknowledged that women in the technology industry are changing the game with a keen interest in innovative businesses that shape their lives.
Musa said the program will focus on empowerment, diversity, growth and networking to provide aspiring women entrepreneurs with the practical skills and resources they need to build and nurture start-up companies.
He said they will be taken through a series of workshops, mentoring sessions and networking opportunities.
“Business growth is not just a goal, it is a commitment to mentoring startups, and we aim for sustainability and profitability.
“We are also looking at creating opportunities that spill over into local communities and lead to the creation of jobs and empowerment,” he said.
Musa noted that ONDI stands ready to build network alliances of entrepreneurs, mentors and investors – relationships that foster innovation and facilitate access to essential resources.
He said he would build a community of technical experts for the country’s development.
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Source: guardian.ng