Women in STEM talk ICT-facilitated GBV, empowering young female innovators

Local women in STEM have long been underrepresented in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, but are now taking charge in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) facilitated by information and communication technology (ICT). With their expertise in technology and innovation, women are addressing the challenges of ICT-facilitated GBV while also empowering the next generation of female innovators. ICT-facilitated gender-based violence (GBV) refers to any form of gender-based violence that is facilitated by information and communication technology, such as social media, messaging apps, email, and online gaming. ALSO READ: Tackling online gender-based violence On March 11, a panel discussion on the importance of digital spaces for the economy and addressing online and ICT-facilitated gender-based violence was held at the University of Rwanda-College of Science and Technology (UR-CST). The event was organised by the Rwanda National Chapter of the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) in celebration of International Women’s Day. Ange Uberewe, an innovator from UR, who spoke on prevention measures against ICT-facilitated GBV during the discussion, emphasised the need to educate young people, especially girls, about online privacy and self-respect. She highlighted that ICT can be used for good and bad purposes, and that young people need to be aware of the impact of their online behaviour, especially on social media. Uberewe urged young girls to focus on ethical and moral values, and to report any online abuse they experience. She also called on the government to raise awareness of the laws around ICT-facilitated GBV and to take necessary measures to prevent it, and emphasised the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for victims of online abuse to speak out and receive the necessary support. ALSO READ: Why we need digital platforms in the fight against gender based violence According to a global survey by Plan International, which interviewed over 14,000 young women aged 15-25 in 22 countries, a staggering 58 per cent of respondents have experienced some form of online abuse, including harassment, cyberstalking, and threats of violence. Delphine Abijuru, the chair of OWSD Rwanda Chapter, emphasised the value of using online platforms, including social media, to gain knowledge and shape one’s career instead of exposing oneself to GBV. She also acknowledged that people can face offensive behaviour online due to what they post, but stressed that posting motivating content is less likely to attract bullying behaviour. While negative comments cannot be prevented, Abijuru advised young girls using online platforms to learn necessary skills instead of posting irrelevant content. Empowering young female innovators is the way to go At the event, four young female innovators in STEM presented their digital transformation pitches and were recognised with awards. The first three winners are Dorcas Isubijeneza, Florence Inkesha and Lea Ishimwe. Abijuru explained that this was a way to provide exposure to students and help them develop their confidence and soft skills, while also showcasing young girls’ contributions to innovation and technology for gender equality. In addition to the awards, OWSD also launched the STEM Star Program, which aims to empower undergraduate students in their personal development and encourage young girls to contribute to transformative technology and digital education. ALSO READ: Girls in STEM: Celebrating gains and tackling challenges Kevine Bajeneza, an entrepreneur in ICT and founder of NATCOM, stressed the importance of women’s involvement in innovation and technology. She highlighted that technology is rapidly changing the world, and that women need to be a part of this change for gender equality, thus encouraged girls to innovate in their areas, emphasising that innovation doesn’t require a high level of ICT expertise. She also stressed the need for girls to understand the pros and cons of using technology, including rules and regulations and called for collaboration and support for empowering young girls. ALSO READ: What must be done to enroll more girls in STEM Jennifer Batamuliza, Head of the Data-Driven Incubation Hub at UR, highlighted the various opportunities for girls and women in tech innovation, including software development, health sector innovations, and edtech. Batamuliza urged girls to pursue their passions in STEM, work hard, and not be discouraged by failure but to take it as part of the process. She emphasised that both men and women need to be involved in developing innovations, and pointed out that while female internet users are still less, there is still a lot of room for growth and opportunity in the tech industry.

News

Women in STEM talk ICT-facilitated GBV, empowering young female innovators