“Technology is the most powerful tool for supporting women. It can really make a quick and transformative change in reducing gender inequality, and defeating the injustices that girls face not only in technology but because of their own gender in general. Consequently, harnessing the potential of this industry is critically important.” - Nino Enukidze, Rector of the Business and Technology University
One of the most effective ways to break gender stereotypes and empower women is to support women and girls in technology. With support from the Government of Norway, UN Women has long-standing experience working in this area. It is this very experience that laid the foundations for the large-scale “500 Women in Technology” project.
500 Women in Technology was implemented by UN Women, with the involvement of the Business and Technology University, TBC Bank, WEPs signatory companies and various ICT representatives in Georgia. Among 4,000 applicants from all over Georgia, 536 women were selected to be trained in information and communications technology (ICT). This six-month programme was designed to accommodate both beginners and experienced learners. The selected participants’ age varied from teens to women in their 50s.
At the end of 2022, 536 women graduated from the programme and acquired a new profession in the tech field. It is expected that the graduates will improve their incomes in the ICT sector through enhanced skills and clear career pathways on UI/UX1; UI/UX2/front-end development; digital marketing; and software product testing.
This story was originally featured here.
Learn more about this program through these resources:
UN Women’s continued support for the employment of women in technology
In the words of Nino Enukidze: “Technology is the most powerful tool of support”