International Girls in ICT Day

International Girls in ICT Day was initiated to raise worldwide awareness and promote the critical need for more girls in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) courses and careers. The observance aims to contribute to the reduction of global gender disparity in this field, believing that increased representation of females in ICT will provide more balance, diversity, and competitiveness in the digital economy. The increasing digitalisation of society demands a workforce skilled in ICT, and the gender gap is restricting this potential.

Established in 2010 by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), International Girls in ICT Day emphasises the commitment to equip young women with the necessary skills for the digital economy. The day is crucial for New Zealand as the local ICT sector continues to expand, contributing significantly to the country's economy. However, it is troubled by a large gender imbalance, with women accounted for only 23% of people working in ICT in New Zealand in 2019. This underrepresentation resonates with the global trend, but the active Observance aims to propel New Zealand towards a more balanced future.

In New Zealand, International Girls in ICT Day is marked with various gatherings, workshops, and presentations at schools, local government offices and private sector institutions. These events aim to inspire girls and young women, offering them opportunities to explore ICT careers, and discover the contributions they can make in this dynamic field. Schools frequently invite successful women in ICT for talks, encouraging females to pursue ICT studies and careers. International Girls in ICT Day is globally recognised on the fourth Thursday of April each year, but the specific New Zealand observance often extends throughout the week to maximise engagement and impact.