International Girls in ICT Day 2024, Its History & Significance

International Girls in ICT Day 2024

International Girls in ICT Day is a special day celebrated every fourth Thursday in April. Its purpose is to show how important girls are in the world of technology, known as Information and Communications Technology (ICT). This celebration encourages more girls and young women to explore education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). In 2023, we celebrate this day on April 25th, reminding us to appreciate the history and significance of ICT.

What is ICT?

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) is a big term that includes all the tools and technologies we use to share, store, and create information. This covers the internet (like social media, websites, blogs, and emails), computers, broadcasting technologies (audio and video players, storage devices, and podcasting), and telephony (like phones, video calls, and more).

International Girls in ICT Day 2024 Theme

On April 25, 2024, International Girls in ICT Day focuses on the theme “Digital Skills for Life” to promote technological proficiency.\

History of International Girls in ICT Day

Inventing Computers: Charles Babbage’s Ideas

In 1822, Charles Babbage, an English engineer, created the first mechanical computer called the “Difference Engine.” It did basic calculations. Babbage wanted more, so he designed the Analytical Engine in 1833, a super-smart computer for that time. Sadly, it was never built because he couldn’t get enough funding.

Ada Lovelace and Computer Programming

In 1843, Augusta Ada King, known as Ada Lovelace, explained the Analytical Engine in a paper. She did something amazing by writing the world’s first computer program. She used punched cards to make the Analytical Engine follow instructions. This laid the groundwork for computer programming.

ENIAC and the Early Women Programmers

In 1945, the United States saw the birth of the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC), the first electronic programmable computer. Surprisingly, six women, known as the “ENIAC girls,” were the ones who programmed it. This shows that women were part of computing from the start.

Big Leap in Technology

From the mid-20th century to the early 21st century, we saw huge improvements in computers. Things like transistors, COBOL, FORTRAN, UNIX, floppy disks, and Ethernet made computers better. During this time, big tech companies like INTEL, I.B.M., Apple, and Microsoft were born.

Rise of Portable Computers and Mobile Phones

In the early 2000s, computers became small and portable. This made it easier for people to carry them around. It also led to the creation of mobile phones as we know them today.

International Girls in ICT Day Significance

Tech is Everywhere

Technology is a big part of our lives, and it’s getting even bigger. The future economy will depend a lot on technology. That’s why it’s important for girls and women to get into tech and take advantage of the opportunities it brings. Plus, tech can help bridge the gap between men and women.

Encouraging Girls in Tech

International Girls in ICT Day encourages young women to explore careers in technology. Special events teach girls about tech and the many career options available. Female tech leaders share their stories to inspire the next generation of girls and young women in tech.

Empowering Through Initiatives

This celebration led to the creation of programs that help girls and young women learn and grow in the tech field. Groups like the United Nations, Cisco, and Microsoft have special programs to support girls who want to pursue tech careers.

Conclusion

International Girls in ICT Day shines a light on the important role girls play in technology. By celebrating this day, we honor the past and inspire the future. Recognizing the value of girls in ICT and supporting STEM education can create a more inclusive and diverse world in technology.

25th April 2024 Special Day

International Girls in ICT Day on April 25th represents a symbolic timing for women’s advocacy groups worldwide to manifest optimism by honoring progress made while working ambitiously towards gender parity in technological fields. As the fourth Thursday of April arrives, championing organizations across borders come together, united by the mission to continue encouraging girls to explore the pivotal world of information and communications technology. The early arrival of 2024’s special day will be the perfect opportunity to set aspirational female representation targets in STEM, recalibrate educational priorities and rekindle hope for a future rife with women equally shaping technological advancements. The occasion presents a chance to ignite worldwide momentum for positive change by having every stakeholder affirm girls’ potential to excel in science, engineering and innovation if given the opportunity.

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