Intel, CSR Children Prepare Girls for Scientific Future

Continuing its global campaign to bridge the gender gap in technology by promoting digital literacy and equipping girls for careers in Science, Technology and Mathematics, the world’s leading silicone innovator and semi-conductor manufacturer, Intel recently partnered with a local child rights advocacy group, Foundation for Corporate Social Responsibility and Children’s Rights (CSR Children) on a symposium tagged “Preparing Girls for a Scientific Future”,  in celebration of this year’s International Day of the Girl Child.  

Toyin Olakanpo, chief executive officer, CSR Children, who welcomed guests to the event, observed that the socio-cultural, economic and political factors impeding equal access to science and technology education in sub-Saharan Africa remained unaddressed despite increased awareness over the past decade.

Olakanpo noted that, “At CSR Children, we have come to realise that the many obstacles to effective education of the girl child in Africa will not be surmounted by governments and their institutions. The challenge requires a firm commitment from socially responsible corporate citizens who understand the dangers of having a huge part of our population unable to function properly in a technology-dependent world.”

Babatunde Akinola, group manager, Corporate Affairs at Intel, who sat on a panel discussing the importance of mentorship in breaking stereotypes about appropriate career paths for girls, highlighted Intel’s contributions to the quest for gender equality in the world of Science and Technology.

Akinola stated that, “We started “She Will Connect” with a mission to empower 5 million girls in the next five years.  “She Will Connect” Program aims to reduce the gender gap in technology all over the world through collaborations that would bring about an innovative combination of digital literacy training, an online peer network and gender relevant content.”

He added that, “We will continue to lead the way in the drive for gender parity in the world of technology, equip young girls with and women with digital literacy skills and an improved understanding of technology.”

Students from Aunty Ayo Secondary School commended the Intel ‘She Will Connect’ initiative, from which they had benefitted, while the Intel ‘She Will Connect’ Spokesperson for Nigeria, Titilope Sonuga noted that ‘She Will Connect’ will continue to empower young girls from their foundational stages, because exposure to technology and sciences can unlock creativity and inquisitiveness in young women.

Intel, through its She Will Connect had earlier in the year supported the girls from Aunty Ayo Secondary School to attend entrepreneurship and digital literacy training at a Technology camp organised by local Non-Governmental organisation partner, Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN); where the students were taught Microsoft Office skills such as Power Point presentation and Introduction to Spreadsheet; as well as Multimedia under the Intel Easy Steps Curriculum.