Embracing Equity: Women rising with Innovation- AHOY AFRICA

[AHOY Editorial] Embracing Equity: Women rising with Innovation, Technology

This year’s theme is informed by the broader theme of the 67th Session of the Commission
on the Status of Women, “Innovation and technological change, and education in the digital age for achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all.”

Inequality gap

The gender inequality gap has been worsened by the recent COVID-19 health and
related supply chain and economic crisis; climate change; and incessant conflicts
around the world.

For instance, several studies during and after the pandemic exposed the gender gaps in access and usage of information and communication technology tools (ICT) tools. As these continue unabated, the little gains made thus far by governments and development partners get eroded and the gap widens.

In a digital world, the typical norm is inclusivity in the digital space. However, women
and girls find themselves on the other side of the divide. The exclusion has dire
implications on all levels of engagement. Lack of access to technology, digital skills
and the Internet limits the potential of young women to leverage technology for social change and leadership.