March 9, 2024

IMO State Digital Economy and E-Government has advocated greater inclusion within the digital landscape. The Commissioner designate, Dr Chimezie Amadi, while celebrating the International Women’s Day (IWD) at the weekend, expressed excitement that young, tech-savvy women, for the first time, joined other women in the state to mark the IWD. The Commissioner noted the event as the first time in the history of Imo where young, promising women, who have identified with technology, decided to converge and join women world over to celebrate IWD, sending a bold statement to the world that Imo women were ready to take over the tech space. It was at the prestigious 3R Digital Learning Centre that the ministry marked the event that celebrated women’s achievements in technology. With a main theme, ‘Inspire Inclusion’ and a sub-theme, ‘Women Elevate through Tech: Bridging Boundaries and Inspiring Inclusion’, the event recognised the pivotal role of women in driving technological innovation and fostering an inclusive digital society. Analysing the theme of the event, he underscored the contribution of women in the tech space and their groundbreaking inventions and contributions in technology.The Executive Director, Women in Technology in Nigeria (WITIN), Mrs Martha Alade, who was the special guest of honour, gave her insightful keynote speech via Zoom. Speakers at the event, including Nneoma Ukpabi form Nollywood; and the Director-General (DG) of Imo Data Centre, Mr Terrace Onyejiaku, in their contribution emphasized the importance of gender diversity and inclusion in the digital economy. There were engaging panel discussions on topics such as ‘Tech journeys: Breaking Barriers and Biases’, featuring successful women in tech, who have overcome barriers and made significant contributions. They shared their experiences, challenges and insights on how technology empowered them. Panellist’s included Justina Nwokedi, a project and community manager/digital training expert; poet and a graduate of the SkillUpImo programme, Judith Chinomso; and senior software engineer and volunteer for developer community, Ndubuisi Onyeamanam. The second panel discussion moderated by the IWD Program Cordinator and founder Admington; Prisca Amaefule, led the discussion on ‘Emerging Technologies and how to inspire Women inclusion’, experts shared insights on raising awareness of emerging technology tools and leveraging technology to maximise results Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Analytics expert, Dr Ijeoma Emeagi; Managing Director, Nora Alfred, IT Consultant and author of Novice To Pro, Chidinma Ezeonyeasi; and Co-founder, Codeant Technology Hub, Mr Chidi Duru were on the ground to analyse the theme and give specialist advice. The event provided opportunity for attendees to connect, collaborate and build supportive networks within the tech community. Sandra OparaPRO