By Modupe Gbadeyanka
At least 1,000 female software engineers will undergo a training programme organised by SkillPaddy through its Count Her In tech programme with support from Unity Bank Plc.
The IT skill development and empowerment initiative is intended to bridge talent supply gaps while providing individuals with the opportunity to meet their training goals and launch careers in the tech industry.
It was disclosed that about 40 young girls will receive full sponsorship from Unity Bank in the special training initiative which was conceived as part of activities to commemorate this year’s International Women’s Day 2024.
All beneficiaries of the programme will be trained on different aspects of software development and provided with mentorship and resources that they need to succeed, including learning life skills like critical thinking, communication, innovation & problem-solving.
The chief executive of Unity Bank, Mrs Tomi Somefun, stated that empowering young women reflects the bank’s commitment to driving inclusion, equality and diversity across industries.
“As a bank committed to fostering economic empowerment and gender equality, we are proud to partner with SkillPaddy on this initiative to contribute to the training and empowerment of 1,000 female software engineers.
“Through this programme, we are not only investing in the future of these talented women but also driving innovation and diversity within the tech industry.
“By providing access to skills training and mentorship, we aim to unlock opportunities and create a more inclusive and thriving digital economy for all,” the bank chief said, adding that the initiative aligns with the theme of the IWD 2024, #InspireInclusion.
International Women’s Day is a day set aside globally to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and reflect on actions to accelerate gender equality.
This year’s theme #InspireInclusion emphasises the importance of creating environments where all individuals, regardless of gender, feel valued, respected, and included.
With women making up just 33 per cent of the tech-related workforce globally, this initiative seeks to boost women’s participation in the tech industry by delivering a sustainable, impact-driven programme that addresses gender disparity and deepens inclusion within the tech industry.
Recall that about two years ago, Unity Bank, in line with its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), partnered with a software training provider, AltSchool Africa, to sponsor female students to acquire specialist software development skills.
