As the world commemorates World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) today, Professor Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, a renowned Professor of Linguistics and Communication Studies, has issued a powerful call to action: prioritize gender equality in digital transformation.
This year’s theme, “Gender Equality in Digital Transformation,” highlights the urgent need to close the gender digital divide and ensure that women and girls have equal access to the opportunities offered by digital technologies.
“The digital revolution is transforming how we live, work, and communicate. Yet, women and girls still face significant barriers in accessing and utilizing these technologies,” said Prof. Adesanya-Davies.
She emphasized that while digital tools can empower women and girls, systemic inequalities, such as lack of access, education, and representation, continue to limit their participation in the digital economy.
Understanding the Digital Divide
Women and girls face multiple challenges in the digital space, including:
Limited Access: Many women, especially in rural or underserved communities, lack access to internet services, devices, and digital literacy programs.
STEM Underrepresentation: There is a stark gender gap in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), restricting women’s influence in shaping digital innovation.
Digital Skills Gap: Many women and girls lack the training and skills necessary to thrive in today’s tech-driven economy.
Bridging the Gender Gap: A Multi-Faceted Approach
To address these challenges, Prof. Adesanya-Davies recommends a comprehensive strategy:
Expand Access and Education: Ensure affordable internet, promote digital literacy, and provide STEM education for girls.
Encourage Women in STEM: Support policies and initiatives that attract and retain women in tech-related fields.
Inclusive Tech Design: Develop digital products and services that reflect the needs and perspectives of women and girls.
Supportive Policies: Governments and organizations must implement programs that promote women’s digital inclusion and empowerment.
“We need collective action. Governments, private sectors, and civil society must collaborate to create an inclusive and equitable digital world,” Prof. Adesanya-Davies added.
The Power of Communication and Information
Beyond infrastructure and policy, Prof. Adesanya-Davies highlighted the role of communication in driving social change.
“Effective communication amplifies women’s voices, challenges stereotypes, and promotes inclusive dialogue,” she said.
Strategic information campaigns can educate communities about gender equality, highlight the benefits of empowering women, and offer support to those facing gender-based violence or discrimination.
Access to accurate and unbiased information is critical for enabling women to make informed decisions and participate fully in society. In the digital age, communication technologies are not just tools, they are lifelines to opportunity, education, and progress.
“By leveraging communication and information tools, we can mobilize support for equality initiatives and foster a more just and inclusive society,” she concluded.
About Prof. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies
Prof. Adesanya-Davies serves in the Department of Linguistics and English Studies at the Faculty of Humanities, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt. She is also the United Nations POLAC Peace Ambassador and Secretary General of the Board of Trustees, UN-POLAC.
Contact:
Prof. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies
Professor of Applied Linguistics
Department of Linguistics/English Studies
Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE)
Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Email: info@unpolac.org
Signed:
Iquo Halo Eton
Special Assistant/Public Relations
Office of the UN POLAC Peace Consul & Secretary General of BOT, UN-POLAC
