In celebration of Girls in ICT Day this year, Womenintechmv partnered with Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) to organize a virtual tour called the “NextGenGirls” for the young girls of secondary and higher secondary schools in Maldives. The event was supported by the Ministry of Education. The event was held on 20th, 21st and 22nd of April 2021. The aim of the event was to inspire young girls to choose ICT as a prospective career path by introducing them to different organizations working in the ICT field. 11 organizations throughout Maldives; from government, public and private sector, joined as facilitators in this tour to share their opportunities. More than 1400 students from over 40 schools attended these sessions.

During the event the organisations showcased various ICT professions in order to widen the girls’ knowledge about the field. Also the organizations showcased some of the digital products developed by Maldivians tech professionals to inspire the girls. The organizations presented their teams, products, services related to ICT during the online sessions dedicated for each of the organizations.

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Organizations who joined as facilitating partners showcased the role of technologies in their workspace, how their technology and innovation teams work in developing and utilizing technologies to deliver services. Moreover, ICT professionals who are currently working in these organizations, provided information about opportunities for girls in the ICT field and gave guidance to students on how they can prepare for work in the field. Furthermore many women working in the tech area joined to share their experiences in the working environment. Organisations also shared about opportunities in ICT areas and how the girls can be prepared to work in the given organisations. 

Maldives Monetary expressed their delight in partnering this programme with Women in Tech Maldives and success of delivering the key message across the country. MMA being heavily reliant on the usage and development of advanced technology and creating opportunities for Women wishes to be involved in organizing many more events like this in the future.

International Girls in ICT Day is a global movement led by International Telecom Union (ITU) to empower girls and young women to consider studies and careers in the growing field of ICTs, by organizing activities to celebrate the day on and around 22 April 2021. 

Girls in ICT Day was first celebrated in Maldives in 2019, whereby Women in Tech Maldives organised several events including giving assembly speeches along with partner organizations in 25 schools across the country, company visits and training events.

This event was part of the annual international event held by the ITU to mark the day. 

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