The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) commemorated International Girls in ICT Day on 24 April 2025 in Windhoek.
This global observance, celebrated annually on 24 April, aims to promote the inclusion of girls and young women in the field of Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
The 2025 theme was “Girls in ICT for Inclusive Digital Transformation.”
CRAN’s Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Emilia Nghikembua, underscored the importance of the day, noting that it is a global initiative launched by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
The initiative is designed to recognise the critical role that girls and young women play in shaping the digital future and to encourage their participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers by addressing and overcoming societal stereotypes.
“This year’s theme resonates deeply with our national and global ambitions. It calls for the creation of an inclusive environment where every girl, regardless of her background or circumstances, can thrive in the digital economy,” said Mrs Nghikembua.
“It also highlights the pressing need for inclusive policy frameworks, robust support systems, and effective mentorship programmes that empower girls to participate meaningfully in the ICT sector.”
She emphasised that digital transformation is not solely a technological endeavour, it is about people, inclusion, and equitable access.
“Our objective is to spark interest and ambition among young girls, helping them envision themselves as leaders and innovators in the digital space.”
Despite the growth of the global ICT industry, women remain significantly underrepresented. Worldwide, women occupy less than one-third of roles in technology-related professions. In Namibia, this gap is even wider, exacerbated by societal norms and limited access to opportunities.
This year’s event aimed to challenge these obstacles and present girls with the possibility of seeing themselves not only as users of technology, but also as its creators and drivers.
Mrs. Nghikembua further stated that the primary beneficiaries of the event were high school and university students who are at a critical point in determining their career paths.
“We were pleased to host learners from three secondary schools in the Khomas Region, as well as students from the University of International Management (IUM) and the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), institutions that are at the forefront of STEM education in the country, offering specialised programmes in Cybersecurity, Engineering, and other ICT disciplines,” emphasised Mrs. Nghikembua.
She concluded by calling for greater collaboration across all sectors to drive inclusive digital development.
“Governments, the private sector, academic institutions, and civil society all have a role to play in cultivating an environment where girls can thrive in ICT.
“This means providing access to mentorship, scholarships, and training opportunities, as well as fostering a culture that embraces diversity and inclusion at every level.
“Today’s event is not merely a celebration, it is a call to action. We urge young girls to believe in themselves, pursue knowledge, and seize the opportunities that ICT has to offer, undeterred by stereotypes or doubt.”
In the photo: From left Mrs Emilia Nghikembua, Ms Thank-You Hauwanga, and Ms Cornelia Shipindo of CRAN, and Mrs Anicia Peters of NCRST.
