By Edefo Henry and Edebor Esther
In commemoration of the year 2025 International Girls in ICT Day, with the theme, “Rethinking the Role of Girls in Africa’s Digital Future,” the Edo State Government, through its Ministry of Science and Technology and the Information Communication Technology Agency (ICTA), in partnership with the PIP Community, has trained 100 girls in various digital skills in the State at no cost to the trainees.
The training which lasted for a month, availed the young girls in tech skills across diverse orientations. Speaking at the graduation ceremony, the functioning Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Science and Technology, Mr. Ukpebor Jonathan (JP), highlighted the importance of digital literacy in today’s labour market. He noted that the demand for tech skills is on the rise, urging young girls to seize the opportunity to continue in developing their digital competencies.
Mr. Ukpebor reiterated the State Government’s commitment under the leadership of Sen. Monday Okpebholo to promoting digital literacy and skills, especially among the girl-child. He said the one month-long programme provided training in areas such as coding, data analysis, amongst other tech-related skills, aimed at equipping the participants with essential knowledge to thrive in the digital economy.
In his words, “The theme for this year’s International Girls in ICT Day, is unique and timely. With the growing demands for tech professionals globally, acquiring certification and expertise in these areas has become essential.” He appreciated the Edo State’s digital infrastructure, including free Wi-Fi services and fiber optic network available across the 18 local government areas, and encouraged the participants to utilize the resources.
The Managing Director of ICTA, Mr. Eghosa Urhoghide, represented by Mrs. Amen Ajayi, while congratulating the participants, urged them to challenge the stereotypes which are associated with digital skills for only male children. “Times are changing, and girls are proving that they are equally capable in the tech space,” she remarked.
Also speaking at the event, the Head of Edo Innovate, Mrs. Jobina Ibegbulem, called for systemic changes to offer girls more access to digital opportunities, saying, “With the right tools and training, our girls can become global leaders in digital innovation. Everything is possible if they believe and are willing to put in the work.”
The Co-founder of PIP Community, Mr. God’spower Okoawo expressed gratitude to the Edo State Government for collaborating on the project. He reaffirmed the Organization’s commitments to empowering youth through digital skills training.
The impactful initiative underscores the Edo State Government’s dedication to fostering digital inclusion and creating a tech-savvy generation of young women, who are prepared for leadership in the digital age.
