DSN Empowers Arewa Ladies 4 Tech Cohort 1.0 Participants: Bridging the Gender Gap in Northern Nigeria’s Tech Industry

In today’s rapidly evolving tech industry, equal access to opportunities should be a right for everyone, regardless of gender or location. Recognizing this need, Google, in collaboration with Data Science Nigeria (DSN), launched the Arewa Ladies4Tech program a few months ago. This initiative aims to empower women in Northern Nigeria with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in the digital age.

The Arewa Ladies4Tech program is a pivotal step towards bridging the gender gap in the tech industry, especially in regions where women face unique challenges in accessing education and employment opportunities. By providing comprehensive training and mentorship, the program equips women with the essential knowledge and skills required to pursue successful careers in technology, thereby enabling them to contribute significantly to the growth and development of their communities.

The program’s first cohort began training in October 2023, with over 300 participants across four learning centers in Kaduna. This intensive training period concluded in early January, after which participants engaged in a four-week mentorship program with She&Tech Nigeria. This mentorship was designed to prepare them with the job-ready soft skills necessary for the tech world. Following the mentorship, participants embarked on a three-month internship with various partner organizations.

Internship Opportunities

The internship phase, a highlight of the Arewa Ladies4Tech program, provides participants with invaluable real-world experience. Interns are distributed across several organizations; Natview Foundation of Tech and Innovation, Omeva Consulting, Yasmin El-Rufai Foundation, Connected Development (CODE), and also some at TechLand Education Services. These internships allow participants to apply their newly acquired skills in practical settings, enhancing their hands-on experience and opening doors to future employment opportunities.

Impact and Empowerment

Beyond technical skills, the Arewa Ladies4Tech program instills a sense of empowerment and confidence in its participants. By breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes, these women become role models, inspiring others in their communities to pursue careers in technology. Their contributions not only enrich the tech industry but also boost Nigeria’s digital economy, fostering innovation and creating sustainable development opportunities.

The Arewa Ladies4Tech program stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for women in Northern Nigeria. With the second cohort gradually rounding off their 3 months journey, registration for Cohort 3.0 is currently ongoing.

You can also start your tech journey by registering here> https://skillsprint.ng/arewa-ladies4tech/