International Girls in ICT Day is observed in over 150 countries worldwide to increase awareness, training, learning, and promoting young women's professional growth in the field of information and communication technology (ICT).
Who is Girls In ICT Day celebrated by?
It's a global movement led by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) of the United Nations and its member nations all over the world.
When did Girls In ICT Day first start?
International Girls in ICT was officially announced by the ITU on April 8, 2011, to be held every fourth Thursday of April.
Who started Girls In ICT Day?
International Girls in ICT Day is a campaign launched by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) member states in support of empowering girls and women in the rapidly growing sector of information and communications technology.
History And Timeline
Women in computing were among the earliest programmers in the early 20th century, and they contributed significantly to the industry. As society and traditions changed, so did the position of women in computer programming, and the field's written history downplayed their accomplishments.
In the mid-'80s, roughly 40% of computer science graduates were women; by 2013, that figure had come down to 26%! Below are some insights into the history of women ICT professionals.
Return Of Halley’s Comet Predicted
Nicole-Reine Lepautre, one of the first known human computers, predicted the return of Halley's Comet by calculating the timing of a solar eclipse.
1750s
First-Ever Computer Program Published
Known as the first computer programmer and among the pioneer women role models in tech, Ada Lovelace wrote an algorithm to calculate Bernoulli's numbers for Charles Babbage's Analytical Engine in 1843.
1843
Computer Of Venus
Maria Mitchell was appointed the 'Computer of Venus' for the American Navy's Naval Almanac and was the first American to discover a comet!
1840s
First Graphing Calculator Patented
Edith Clarke, the first female electrical engineer, filed and received a patent for a graphing calculator in the '20s.
'20s
Earliest Compiler
In addition to being one of the first programmers on the Harvard Mark I the computer, Grace Hopper invented the earliest compiler.
'40s-'50s
Traditions And Customs
Young girls are discouraged from studying technology in many parts of the world. International Girls In ICT event is a way to show that IT is for women.
For example, Digital Opportunity Trust (DOT) and ITU are cooperating to extend the reach and impact of youth-led, grassroots initiatives in Africa and create opportunities for young women and girls in the ICT sector.
Ways To Observe Or Celebrate Girls In ICT Day
It's easy to contribute and show your support. Share an article, video, or podcast about a woman in tech you admire on social media using the hashtag #GirlsInICT. Volunteer for a non-profit STEM organization focused on girls. Attend an event related to gender equality, or just write about your own experience in the field.
Facts And Stats
The year 2022 marks the 11th anniversary of Girls In ICT Day, which has been celebrated since 2011.
Companies like Ericsson offer programs like Connect to Learn to celebrate Girls in ICT Day with a focus on STEAM and ICT.
To mark Girls In ICT Day 2021, the European Broadcasting Union and the British School of Geneva teamed up with the BBC to let female students learn more about careers in ICT.
What day is Girls In ICT Day?
This day is observed annually on every fourth Thursday in April.
Why is this day important?
This day aims to eliminate gender disparity and create a more inclusive ICT sector.
Who invented the concept of Girls In ICT Day?
It was initiated by the UN's International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and its member states.
What does the United Nations say about International Girls In ICT Day?
The UN emphasizes that this day is important to empower girls to pursue a career in ICT.
What are some reasons for celebrating this day?
This is a day to promote women in the technology sector, with the goal of closing the gender gap.
What are some events similar to Girls In ICT Day?
Other related events include Zero Discrimination Day and International Women's Week.
When Is This Day Celebrated
Thursday, April 23, 2020
Thursday, April 22, 2021
Thursday, April 28, 2022
Thursday, April 27, 2023
Thursday, April 25, 2024
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