Kano Ladies Mentors and Mentees Dialogue (KALAMED), a group of female professionals in Kano, has launched a mentorship program with the aim of empowering women in Nigeria through digital skills.
Hannatu Sulaiman Abba, the convener, states that this mentorship initiative is a response to the increasing demand for digital skills in Nigeria and the underrepresentation of women in the technology sector.
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The objective of the KALAMED program
According to the convener, the primary objective of the program is to enable women to acquire knowledge about digital technologies and understand how they can utilize them to generate economic prospects.
She said the mentorship program is specifically designed to assist women in developing digital skills such as digital marketing, e-commerce, and social media management.
By equipping women with the necessary skills and knowledge, the objective is to bridge the gender gap in technology and create more opportunities for women to thrive in the digital economy.
The program is scheduled to run for several months, and mentors will be selected from experienced professionals in the technology sector. These mentors will closely collaborate with the mentees, providing them with guidance and support as they navigate the realm of digital technologies.
Target group for the program
Abba explained that the program welcomes women from diverse backgrounds and age groups who are interested in learning about digital technologies and exploring their potential as drivers of economic growth.
During her speech at the program, Fadila Muhammad, one of the participants, expressed her optimism that the initiative would serve as a catalyst for motivating more women to enter the field of technology and make use of the benefits offered by digital technologies.
She further emphasized that women in Kano have the potential to seize emerging opportunities in the digital economy and make significant contributions to the economic growth and development of the country.
African women are becoming financially independent through digital platforms
Benefit to women
Inspiring Nigerian women in the field of technology brings forth numerous benefits. By inspiring more women to pursue careers in tech, the industry becomes more diverse and inclusive. This diversity fosters a range of perspectives, ideas, and problem-solving approaches, leading to enhanced innovation and creativity within the sector.
Encouraging Nigerian women to enter the tech industry provides them with opportunities for economic empowerment. Tech careers often offer competitive salaries and growth potential, enabling women to achieve financial independence and improve their socioeconomic status.
Nigeria, like many other countries, experiences a significant gender gap in technology-related fields. By inspiring more women to enter the sector, the gender gap can be reduced, promoting equality and creating a more balanced workforce.
When women in tech become visible and successful, they also serve as role models for aspiring female technologists. Having relatable role models and access to mentorship opportunities can greatly encourage and support women in their tech journeys, boosting their confidence and paving the way for their success.
Women bring unique perspectives and insights to the table, fostering technological innovation. By inspiring Nigerian women to participate in tech-related fields, their valuable contributions can lead to the development of groundbreaking solutions that address diverse societal challenges.
As more women enter the tech industry, it creates a positive ripple effect in the community. With increased representation, women can contribute to the development of local tech ecosystems, support entrepreneurship, and empower other women through knowledge sharing and skill development.
By harnessing the potential of Nigerian women in tech, the country can accelerate its economic growth and development. Women’s participation in the tech sector can drive digital transformation, improve technological infrastructure, and boost the overall competitiveness of the nation on a global scale.
