As the world celebrates the 2023 International Women’s Day (IWD) which is annually marked globally on the 8th day of March, three maritime women organizations, WISTA Nigeria, WIMA Nigeria and WIMOWCA Nigeria are collaborating in celebration to make the year 2023 IWD unique.
This year’s theme which is tagged DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality’, will explore the impact of the digital gender gap on widening economic and social inequalities and spotlight the importance of protecting the rights of women and girls in digital spaces and addressing online and ICT-facilitated gender-based violence.
According to a press statement made available by the 3 women organization, it reads that Women have countless contributions to the digital world that we live in more and more, from the early days of computing to the modern era of virtual reality and artificial intelligence, their footprints can be seen in the digital space.
Stating that their achievements have been in a field that has historically never embraced nor valued the contributions of women. Yet against all odds women have thrived .
Currently, a persistent gender gap in internet access prevents women from fully utilizing technology. Participation in tech design and governance is still significantly hampered by their under representation in stem education and jobs.
According to the press statement, ‘women are all too frequently forced out of the digital spaces they occupy due to the persistent fear of online gender-based violence and the lack of legal remedy
“Digital technology is also creating new opportunities for the global emancipation of women, girls, and other oppressed populations. The digital age offers an unparalleled chance to eradicate all types of inequity and inequality, from gender-responsive digital learning to tech-facilitated sexual and reproductive healthcare.
Their mission is taking the opportunity to build a better future for everyone in the world, not just women and girls, as the world deals with a variety of global issues. As their collaboration will recognize and celebrate women and girls who are championing the advancement of transformative technology and digital education in the maritime space
Jointly, as women in the maritime space, the three women organization are advocating for equity, technological advancement and inclusion of all women in the digital space to further the advancement of the maritime industry in Nigeria.
