By: Julian Osamoto
A lack of access to technology is quietly shaping the future of many in girls rural Nigeria, with growing concerns they are being pushed away from science and technology careers.
At an event to mark International Girls in ICT Day, about 150 girls from underserved communities around Abuja gathered for training and career talks aimed at encouraging interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
The programme, organised by the Centre for Information Technology and Development CITAD, brought together participants from Lelewari, Tunga Asheri, Kaida Sabo, Pasipa and Dakwa communities where access to digital tools remains limited.
Yesmin Salako, a programme officer with CITAD, said the initiative was designed to expose girls to opportunities in the digital space.
“The world is now digital, and we don’t want girls to be left behind. We want to see more girls included and building careers in technology.” she said.
Shift away from science
Salako explained that one of the key concerns is the growing number of girls opting for arts and commercial subjects instead of science.
According to her, many students make this decision early, often due to limited exposure to practical science education and lack of digital facilities.
“You find that girls moving into senior secondary school are already choosing arts. We want to see more of them go into science classes,” she noted.
Exploring Areas
The event included hands-on sessions in basic computing and digital skills, giving participants an opportunity to explore areas such as graphic design and typing.
Some of the students said the experience had opened up new interests;
Summayya Usman, from Lelewari community, said she had started learning creative digital skills. “I learn calligraphy and graphic design. I draw banners and teach my friends,” she said.
Another participant, Azima Aliyu, described her growing interest in learning. “I like to learn and meet new people,” she said.
For Saidu Khairat, the ICT centre provides both academic support and a space for creativity. “I come here to type, do my homework and draw with my friends,” she said.
Beyond awareness
Organisers say more needs to be done beyond awareness campaigns.
They called on authorities to expand access to digital infrastructure in rural areas, train teachers, and provide the tools needed for practical learning.
According to CITAD, the transition to computer-based examinations by bodies such as the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has added urgency to the issue, with concerns that students without digital skills may be disadvantaged.
There are also calls for scholarships and targeted programmes to support girls pursuing STEM education.
Wider implications
CITAD warned that without deliberate efforts to bridge the gap, rural communities’ risk being left behind in an increasingly digital world.
The challenge, they said, is not just about education, but about equal access to future opportunities.
International Girls in ICT Day is celebrated on 23 of Apri, this year’s theme “AI for Development: Girls shaping the digital future”, emphasizes on empowering girls with Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills, digital literacy, and opportunities to lead in creating, designing, and governing future technology
