By Emeka Aginam

The Nigerian Computer Society, (NCS) has called for more women participation in Information Technology so as to bridge digital divide.

The Nigeria Women in Information Technology (NIWIIT), is an interest group of the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS),

The President of the group, Mrs. Adeola Ilechukwu said that NIWIIT was committed to driving the future of Nigeria by harnessing on the strengths and contributions of women in Information Technology, in line with its motto of “Advancing the use of Information Technology amongst women”.

NIWIT she said is a new Interest Group in NCS like ITAN, ISPON, ISPAN, etc. Membership is open to female members of NCS, CPN and any woman involved in IT.

“Foster unity among Nigerian women in the IT industry through networking, maintain and defend the integrity and right of women in the IT industry, promote professionalism, capacity building and good relationship among members through mentoring, maintain the highest standard of ethics, conduct, virtue, etiquette and discipline among women in the IT industry, engage in any activity and ventures which will promote NIWIIT as well as the welfare of members, create a platform by which women in IT can collaborate with other women in other professions in Nigeria and elsewhere, develop and train members of the NIWIIT through workshops and capacity building programs, among others are the objectives of the NiWiiT

“The interest group is an imperative to empower and encourage women working in the field of information and communication technologies (ICTs). NiWiiT works with government, interest groups and other stakeholders to achieve objectives for women in IT in unique and innovative ways” she said.

According to her, events and activities would recognize the impact of women in ICT while promoting the advancement of women in ICTs. NiWIIT is focused on increasing the active participation and contribution at all levels in the IT industry.

The group she added would work on “catching-them-young” through events highlighting opportunities for young girls and young women in educational institutions, government agencies and ICT driven organizations.