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By Ganga Bhandari

 Nepal, known for its rich and diverse culture and traditions, faces a pressing social challenge – gender inequality — that cuts across all sectors of economy, politics, education and all. Despite the rich heritage, deep-rooted gender biases persist, particularly in the field of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). In a society where male dominance often overshadows women’s contributions, ICT emerges as a beacon of hope.

ICT offers a transformative opportunity to tackle entrenched gender inequalities. It holds the power not just to bridge socio-economic gaps but also to drive significant shifts in gender dynamics. By embracing ICT, Nepali women can gain greater access to education, economic opportunities, and social participation.

Yet, women remain significantly underrepresented in Nepal’s ICT sector. Social norms and limited educational access create barriers for girls interested in technology careers. This underrepresentation not only limits individual opportunities but also hampers the sector’s overall growth. As highlighted by recent reports, despite increasing interest among girls in STEM fields, gender stereotypes continue to obstruct their progress.

The gap and the opportunity:

Women are significantly underrepresented in Nepal’s ICT sector. Social norms and limited access to education create barriers for girls interested in technology careers. This underrepresentation not only limits individual opportunities but also stifles the sector’s growth.

Girls in ICT face numerous challenges and opportunities as they navigate their educational and professional paths. For example, early enthusiasts like Bojana Vukosav shifted from medicine to IT due to her passion for the field, while, Ana Savić combined her love for video games with programming and art. These young women highlight their diverse interests and talents in ICT.

Despite increasing enrollment in IT classes and more girls pursuing STEM careers, gender stereotypes still shape perceptions of women in these fields. As noted by Marija Radosavljević, many girls encounter discouragement and underestimation. Yet, their determination underscores the need for more support and encouragement, as emphasized by Jelena Ružičić, UNDP Portfolio Manager for digital innovation. With digital literacy becoming crucial for future success, addressing these challenges is essential for unlocking the full potential of Nepali girls in ICT.

However, ICT offers a unique opportunity to bridge the gender gap by serving as a powerful equalizer. Technology can provide girls with essential education and skills development, equipping them with the technical expertise needed to excel in the digital age. It also promotes economic empowerment, as careers in ICT offer competitive salaries and financial independence. Moreover, the digital world opens doors for women to launch innovative businesses and become change-makers. Additionally, ICT tools can amplify women’s voices, enabling them to engage more actively in public discourse and decision-making processes.

Building the bridge:

To bridge the digital gender divide, a multifaceted approach is essential. This strategy should focus on promoting early exposure to ICT, providing accessible education, fostering mentorship, and creating a supportive environment. Introducing girls to coding, web development, and other ICT fields from a young age can help dismantle stereotypes and spark their interest. Developing affordable ICT training programs tailored to girls’ unique needs is crucial for overcoming educational barriers. Connecting girls with successful female professionals in the sector provides valuable guidance and inspiration. Additionally, advocating for government policies that promote gender equality in ICT education and the workplace can further support these efforts.

Empowering women, empowering Nepal:

By equipping Nepali girls with the tools and knowledge of ICT, we unlock their potential to become leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs. This, in turn, strengthens Nepal’s economy, fosters social progress, and paves the way for a more just and equitable society. Investing in girls’ access to ICT is not just about technology; it’s about building a brighter future for Nepal. Therefore the information and communication technology (ICT) sector presents a powerful tool for progress, with the potential to empower Nepali girls and, consequently, all women in the country.

 The author is a former IT specialist at UNDP Nepal who worked for the National Disaster Risk Reduction Authority. Also a former ICT Expert at the Center for Education and Human Resources Development, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, the Government of Nepal.