By Tracy Ohovwore, Benin City
To celebrate the 2025 International Girls in ICT Day, which has as its theme “Rethinking the Role of Girls in Africa’s Digital Future,” the Edo State Government, in collaboration with the PIP Community and its Ministry of Science and Technology and the Information Communication Technology Agency (ICTA), has provided 100 girls with free training in a variety of digital skills.
The month-long training exposed the young girls to a variety of tech skills. Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Mr. Ukpebor Jonathan (JP), the Ministry of Science and Technology’s acting Permanent Secretary, emphasized the value of digital literacy in the modern workforce.
He explained that the demand for tech skills is on the rise, urging young girls to seize the opportunity to continue in developing their digital competencies.
Mr. Ukpebor reiterated the State Government’s commitment to promoting digital literacy and skills, especially among the girl-child.
He also added that the one month-long programme provided training in areas such as coding, data analysis, amongst other tech-related skills, aimed at equipping the participants with essential knowledge to thrive in the digital economy.
According to him, “The theme for this year’s International Girls in ICT Day, is unique and timely. With the growing demands for tech professionals globally, acquiring certification and expertise in these areas has become essential.”
He encouraged the participants to make use of Edo State’s digital infrastructure, praising its free Wi-Fi and fiber optic network that spans all 18 local government areas.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Eghosa Urhoghide, ICTA’s Managing Director, on behalf of Mrs. Amen Ajayi, congratulated the attendees and encouraged them to overcome the misconception that digital skills are exclusively for boys.
Also speaking at the event, the Head of Edo Innovate, Mrs. Jobina Ibegbulem, called for systemic changes to offer girls more access to digital opportunities.
“With the right tools and training, our girls can become global leaders in digital innovation. Everything is possible if they believe and are willing to put in the work.” She stated.
The Edo State Government was thanked by Mr. God’spower Okoawo, the co-founder of PIP Community, for their cooperation on the project. Through training in digital skills, he reiterated the organization’s commitment to empowering young people.
The significant project demonstrates the Edo State Government’s commitment to promoting digital inclusion and developing a generation of young women who are tech-savvy and ready to take on leadership roles in the digital era.
