As the world celebrates International Girls in ICT Day under the theme of "Leadership," stakeholders in Ghana are calling for greater inclusivity and equal opportunities for girls and women in the technology sector.

According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), only 21% of ICT ministers worldwide are women, highlighting a significant gender disparity in leadership roles within the sector.

Additionally, out of 165 ICT regulators globally, only 32 are led by women. These statistics underscore the urgent need for initiatives to promote female representation and leadership in ICT.

In Ghana, the situation mirrors the global trend, with women occupying less than a third of positions in the private sector and facing a pay gap of 21% compared to their male counterparts. Recognizing the challenges posed by these gender disparities, stakeholders are advocating for concrete measures to address them.

The Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) Ghana, a leading advocate for girls' education and empowerment, is spearheading efforts to bridge the gender gap in the ICT sector. On International Girls in ICT Day, FAWE Ghana emphasizes the importance of providing equal opportunities and remuneration for women aspiring to leadership roles in ICT institutions.

"We must focus on mentoring and empowering more girls and young women in ICT," said a spokesperson for FAWE Ghana. "This is not just about equipping them with technical skills but also about nurturing the leadership skills they need to take up key positions in the industry."

FAWE Ghana recommends that the government, through the Ministries of Education and Communication, accelerate initiatives to promote girls' participation in ICT education and employment. By leveraging ICTs as a tool for bridging the gender digital divide, Ghana can achieve a balance of socio-economic and political development.

"Each of us has a role to play in bridging the gender gap in the ICT sector," the spokesperson added. "As we continue to transform the digital space, FAWE Ghana remains committed to working with stakeholders to make greater strides in empowering girls and women in the tech industry."

On this International Girls in ICT Day, FAWE Ghana says it extends its best wishes to all girls and young women pursuing careers in ICT and reaffirms its dedication to advancing gender equality and empowerment in Ghana's technology sector.

Read the FAWE statement in full below.