By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe Director General Dr Gift Machengete says while the girl child still lags in terms of ICT access and use, they are fast catching up as there is no marked difference in the usage and access statistics unlike in the past.
Dr Machengete said this showed that efforts at bridging the gender digital divide such as the Girls in ICT Day initiative were bearing fruit.
“From this positive development, it is my conviction that as we strive for gender equality in ICTs, we should now shift focus from primarily elevating the girl child but the boy child as well.
“This principle of focusing equally on both sexes has been fondly demonstrated by Her Excellency the First Lady in her Gota – Nhanga Program, where she teaches both girls and boys traditional ethos in order to foster values and good morals in them as they grow up.
“In so doing Her Excellency the First Lady explores the modern-day challenges faced by young people and proffers solutions to these problems in a relaxed environment,” Dr Machengete said.
In commemorating the International Girls in ICT Day in Mutare, Dr Machengete said in their quest for gender equality in ICT, it was vital that people acknowledge and address the challenges faced by both girls and boys.
“While girls often encounter barriers such as societal stereotypes, limited access to education, and lack of role models, we must not neglect the fact that boys too face their own set of challenges. “They too are affected by societal expectations, pressures, and stereotypes that can limit their potential and hinder their ability to pursue their passions and interests in ICT,” he said.
in terms of Internet use, boys slightly edge out girls, with 55% of boys and 48% of girls reported to be Internet users. The age of initial Internet use also sees a marginal difference, with boys starting at an average age of 9 compared to girls at 10 years old.
Regarding access to technology, the statistics indicate that 42% of girls and 45% of boys have access to mobile devices, while 43% of girls and 46% of boys have access to computers – be they laptops or desktops.
In terms of cyber risks, the survey revealed that 44% of girls and 51% of boys were exposed to harmful content. Furthermore, virtual friendships appeared common among children, with 40% of girls and 47% of boys reporting having virtual friends – a trend which exposes them to online abuse.
He said in neglecting the boy child, people risk perpetuating harmful gender norms and stereotypes that not only marginalize girls but also constrain boys in their development and opportunities.
“By fostering inclusive environments and opportunities for both girls and boys, we can break down these barriers and create a more equitable and supportive ecosystem for all,” he said.
He said in recognizing the importance of digital skills for young people, it was crucial to understand both their impact and the consequences of their absence.
This year’s Girls in ICT Day ran under the theme of today’s event: Fostering Leadership in the Digital Age.
About Author
