Women in Technology: Empowerment, Innovation, and Inclusion

Every year on March 8, the world celebrates International Women’s Day (IWD)—a time to recognize women’s achievements and push for gender equality. But what does the future of women in technology look like without the empowerment of women through information and communication technologies (ICTs)?

It is undoubtedly crucial to celebrate the impact of women in ICT, raise awareness about their contributions, and encourage inclusive participation. However, how effectively are we creating awareness about the policies and actions needed to advance and empower women in the tech space?

Women in Technology: A Catalyst for Equality and Progress

Each year, thousands of events take place worldwide to inspire women and celebrate their contributions. But IWD is not just about celebration—it is also about confronting ongoing challenges.

Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in key sectors like business, technology, and politics. They still face barriers to resources, education, and opportunities, impacting their ability to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Empowering women in technology is therefore not a luxury—it’s a necessity for building a sustainable, inclusive future.

The Role of Women in Technology in Driving Innovation

Technology is shaping the world, but who is shaping technology?

The future of technology will be determined not only by what we build but also by who we empower to build it. Women must be active participants—not just consumers but innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders in tech.

If we fail to close the gender gap in ICT, we risk widening societal inequalities.

Bridging the Digital Divide: Empowering Women in Technology

Can we truly discuss gender equality without addressing the digital divide?

Access to information and digital literacy is no longer optional—it’s as essential as reading and writing. However, many women and marginalized groups still lack equal access to technology, knowledge, and opportunities. Some don’t even realize the importance of careers in technology or that they, as women, can actively pursue and seize opportunities in the tech sector.

Key Barriers Women Face in Technology:
✔ Limited access to ICT education and training
✔ Underrepresentation in leadership and decision-making roles
✔ Gender bias in employment and workplace culture
✔ Harassment, discrimination, and lack of mentorship opportunities

True empowerment means not just participation, but inclusion and leadership.

Women in Technology: Moving Beyond Consumption to Creation

Women need to do more than use technology—they must shape it.

Just like men, women must harness ICT to innovate, lead, and create solutions that benefit society. This means:
✅ Encouraging more women to pursue careers in STEM fields
✅ Breaking down barriers that hinder career advancement
✅ Providing mentorship and networking opportunities
✅ Ensuring equal representation in tech decision-making

In particular, professional bodies in technology, tech mentors, academic institutions, and advocacy groups have a significant role to play. As for me, as a tech mentor and innovation policy advisor, I have been promoting women in technology activities and opportunities for decades. This has been achieved through an online social network group I created specifically for this purpose, as well as through my other online and professional activities. Without women actively involved in creating and innovating technology, we risk building a future that does not fully represent half of the population.

Breaking Barriers: Challenges Women in Technology Face

The gender gap in ICT is certainly not just about numbers—it’s about systemic barriers that make it harder for women to succeed.

🔴 Workplace Inequality – Women in tech often face opportunity gaps, underrepresentation in leadership, and gender bias in recruitment.
🔴 Lack of Support Systems – Without mentorship, sponsorship, and strong networks, women struggle to advance in the field.
🔴 Cultural & Societal Norms – In many parts of the world, stereotypes discourage girls from pursuing careers in STEM. In fact, I have encountered people who believe that STEM careers are exclusively for men.

These challenges cannot be ignored. Indeed, the only way forward is to actively break down these barriers and create real opportunities for women in the digital environment.

A Call to Action: Advancing Women in Technology for the Future

🚀 Technology is neither male nor female. More power to the women breaking stereotypes!

Women in technology is not optional—it’s a necessity. We must go beyond symbolic empowerment and focus on real change:
🔹 Knowledge-sharing and mentorship
🔹 Creating opportunities for leadership roles
🔹 Dismantling discrimination and harassment in the tech industry

Instead of just talking about inclusion, we must act—ensuring that women are not just present but thriving in ICT.

What Can You Do?

✔ Support women-led tech initiatives and startups
✔ Advocate for inclusive policies in workplaces and governments
✔ Encourage young girls to explore STEM careers
✔ Mentor and uplift women in science, tech and innovation

Final Thoughts: A Future Defined by Inclusion

No country can flourish if it stifles the potential of its women and deprives itself of half its talent. Without women shaping the digital future, we are fighting with one hand tied behind our backs.

💡 Women, have your own vision. Be your own light. Inspire yourself, even against all odds. May you succeed.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us recognize the pioneers who paved the way as well as women breaking barriers in AI, cybersecurity, digital transformation, and beyond. Their voices, ambitions, and innovations are shaping a better, more inclusive world.

Happy International Women’s Day! 🎉

Author: Jide Awe

Science, Technology and Innovation policy advisor.

Nigeria’s Inaugural Tech Mentor of the Year

Find him on Threads @iamjidaw on threads

Find him on Twitter @jidaw

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