ITU presents a plan to reduce the digital gender gap

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and global development company Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF) launched a project to close the gender digital skills gap in Burundi, Ethiopia and Haiti.

In a statement, the ITU noted that the digital gender gap in developed nations is “narrowing” but has “widened” in developing nations and least developed countries (LDCs).
PMA since 2013.

Across Africa, the proportion of women using the Internet is 12% lower than that of men. In the less developed African countries, there is a 31% gender gap.

“More than ever, digital technology is a key driver of economic opportunities for women,” said ITU Secretary-General Houlin Zhao.

“This partnership between ITU and EIF will result in vital political support to ensure the sustainable expansion of ICTs where it is most needed and will benefit women as they access and use information and communication technologies (ICT). to participate fully in their economies. “

The project will cooperate with governments and decision makers to ensure that economic policies are gender sensitive; work with partners and members of the local ecosystem to prepare women of working age for the digital world; and collaborate with the private sector to open opportunities for women.

Ratnakar Adhikari, FEI Executive Director, said: “Building digital skills for women in LDCs can help women take advantage of growing opportunities for business expansion, greater connection to the market and greater employability. That is why I am so pleased that MIM is embarking on this effort together with ITU and the governments of Burundi, Ethiopia and Haiti as part of its Empower Women, Power Trade initiative, which supports innovative work with women in LDCs. ”.