In the ongoing effort to promote gender inclusion within the tech industry, an impressive cohort of 1,500 girls and women has completed the 2023 Makeathon's second edition, an event meticulously orchestrated by Women in Tech Nigeria. This remarkable accomplishment marks a substantial advancement in gender diversity and inclusivity within the Nigerian tech sector, following the success of the inaugural edition, which saw 1,000 beneficiaries don their graduation caps.
Spearheaded by VFD Group, the Women in Tech Nigeria 2023 Makeathon represents a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower girls and women to embark on careers in technology-related fields. Over a rigorous three-month period, participants underwent intensive, free capacity-building exercises encompassing Product Design, Product Management, Digital Marketing, and Data Analytics. These aspiring tech enthusiasts were equipped with hands-on training and knowledge to prepare them for thriving careers in the tech world.
The graduation ceremony, held at The Nest Innovation Technology Park in Yaba, bore testimony to the unwavering commitment and hard work exhibited by the program's participants. Hailing from diverse backgrounds and experiences, these girls and women showcased their determination to shatter barriers and make a lasting impact in the tech industry.
The Women in Tech Nigeria 2023 Makeathon is in alignment with global insights that underscore the paramount importance of diversity in the technology sector. A diverse workforce not only fosters innovation but also tackles critical challenges and introduces fresh perspectives to the industry. By furnishing women with the requisite skills and knowledge to excel in tech-related careers, this program contributes significantly to the broader goal of forging a more inclusive and equitable technology ecosystem.
Solape Akinpelu, the Country Director of Women in Tech Nigeria, expressed her enthusiasm for the Makeathon's accomplishments and its potential for the future. She stated, "The graduation of 1,500 girls and women from the Women in Tech Nigeria 2023 Makeathon is a significant milestone in our mission to bridge the gender gap in technology. The dedication and passion displayed by these graduates are truly inspiring. We believe that they are poised to make a substantial impact in the tech industry and contribute to Nigeria's technological growth."
Akinpelu continued, "The tech industry is one of the most important and fastest-growing sectors in the world. We are proud to partner with VFD Group to provide girls and women with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in this exciting field. We are confident that our graduates will make significant contributions to the tech industry and Nigeria as a whole. These women have worked incredibly hard to learn new skills and knowledge, and we are committed to continuing to empower women and girls through our programs, hoping that our graduates will inspire other women to pursue careers in tech."
In his remarks, Gbenga Omolokun, the Managing Director of VBank, affirmed, "The Makeathon is part of our goal to increase the participation of women in the tech industry. According to a report by the World Economic Forum, women account for only 28% of the global workforce in tech. In Nigeria, the gender gap in the tech industry is even wider, with women accounting for only 22% of the workforce. We commit to sponsoring the Makeathon to close the gender gap in the tech industry by providing girls and women with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. This partnership reflects VFD Group's dedication to fostering positive change and contributing to creating a more diverse and inclusive tech industry, which will benefit everyone."
To provide intensive skills training to the beneficiaries, Women In Tech Nigeria collaborated with The Nest Incubation Hub and Girl Code Academy.
Dami Ajayi, a beneficiary of the Makeathon who received training in Product Management, shared her elation, stating, "I am extremely happy to have benefited from this intensive 3-month tech capacity-building program. I enjoyed the tremendous opportunity to learn new skills, gain experience, and eventually graduate to embark on a successful career in the tech industry. I am grateful to everyone who played a significant role in making this possible."
The Women In Tech Nigeria 2023 Makeathon stands as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path for women in Nigeria to enter and excel in the dynamic and promising tech landscape. It symbolizes not only a commitment to gender equality but also a brighter future for technology in the nation.
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