It is a startling statistic to note that there are 250 million fewer women than men online (ITU, 2016). Moreover, 200 million fewer women than men own a mobile phone (GSMA, 2015). Geographically, this digital gender gap is more pronounced in developing and underdeveloped areas of the world, such as sub-Saharan Africa and rural parts of the Asian continent. While the said divide might not be as pervasive in more industrialized countries, the perception of Silicon Valley, the heart of the global digital and IT revolution, as a “boys’ club” lends credence to the view that women are at an inherent disadvantage in obtaining opportunities in the world of information technology. The history of the female gender playing catchup to several human endeavors, from the right to vote to opportunities to serving as frontline military personnel, is a long and convoluted one. The gap in IT opportunities is the latest chapter in this protracted saga.
One of the United Nations’ targets for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 is SDG #5, to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. This goal clearly recognizes the reality on the ground regarding women being behind in terms of opportunities in various aspects of life. The World Economic Forum noted that only 22% of professionals with proficiency in artificial intelligence are female today. It is estimated that by 2030, around 40 million to 160 million women may need to transition between occupations, often into higher-skilled roles. Absent serious action, the digital divide between genders on this front will only worsen.
Acknowledging this stark reality, last Feb. 4, 2023, the Rotaract Club of Cebu Fuente co-hosted the “Empowering Girls in Today’s Digital World” event at the IEC Convention Center, Cebu City. Primarily hosted by the mother club and co-hosted also by the school chapters of the University of San Carlos and the University of the Visayas, the seminar/webinar featured an array of influential female personalities, namely: blogger Issa Perez Gandionco, RCCF Past President Dr. Maricel Borromeo Amores, host and columnist Prof. Janet Borgonia, and philanthropist Nicole Borromeo.
The gathering provided insights and inputs for today’s younger generation of women on how to make the most out of their God-given skills and ultimately, make a mark for themselves, and in the service of others. Here’s hoping that the digital gender gap would be narrowed to a negligible minimum as soon as possible, and as effectively as possible.
