Erilearn, an innovative learning platform aimed at addressing unemployment and skill gaps in the job market, is set to empower 1,000 girls in tech across Nigeria by providing accessible, market-driven tech skills along with internship and job placement support.
The “1000 Girls in Tech” project will launch on November 4, 2024, offering free training in relevant tech fields to 1,000 girls, including those looking to transition into tech.
The initiative will take place in three states: Lagos, Enugu, and Abuja.
Executive Director Taiwo Joseph stated that the organization’s goal is to help aspiring individuals, particularly girls, in choosing a career path across various fields.
“Erilearn offers a practical approach that assists aspiring individuals in selecting a career path, acquiring the necessary skills, securing financial support, and gaining access to internship and job opportunities.
“Women and girls often lack access to opportunities for education and training in tech-related fields, leading to disparities in employment and economic empowerment.
“To address this issue, we propose a project aimed at training 1000 girls in technology skills, free of charge, provided they meet the specified requirements”, she said.
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Stating the requirements, Taiwo Joseph stated that eligible participants are between age 18 and 35 years and they will go through an application stage, selection stage, training and certification stage.
She said: “Presently we are in the application stage and we have 928 registered participants so far, we are left with 72 more applicants, after this stage, there will be training sessions on learning experiences and practical knowledge, qualified participants are on-boarded onsite at a communicated venue on an approved date, the on-boarded participants are given access to the learning modules for virtual learning sessions that provide hands-on experiences and practical knowledge, then successful participants will be assembled at the physical site for the graduation ceremony and certification.
“Through this initiative, we hope to empower and equip 1000 girls with essential technical skills and knowledge, increase the representation of women in the tech industry, create a supportive and inclusive learning environment for girls interested in technology.”
Joseph joined other international bodies to celebrate the International Day of The Girl Child, noting that it is important to give voice to young girls and help them find their feet early enabling them reach their full potential, she also urged girls to be “extraordinary and exist beyond the ordinary.”
“In celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child, it is crucial to recognize the importance of “empowering young girls to reach their full potential.
Empowering girls means providing them with access to education, opportunities, and a supportive environment that allows them to break barriers and contribute meaningfully to society.
“As girls, you hold the power to shape your future. Choose positive paths—pursue your passions, embrace knowledge, and surround yourselves with people who inspire growth.
“Don’t just live to fulfill the norms; be extraordinary and exist beyond the ordinary. Your uniqueness and strength are what the world needs, so dream big and strive to make a difference!”
Addressing the low percentage of women in tech and scientific fields, Joseph stressed that this year’s focus is on cultivating more women in technology, which will help boost their representation in the industry.
“Bringing women and girls to the forefront of technology demands collective action. This year’s priority theme emphasizes the need for all of us to work together to create meaningful change.
“Despite their significant contributions to human innovation, women and girls remain underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
“They make up just 35% of students in STEM education globally. In the technology sector, women hold less than a third of positions, and in the rapidly growing field of artificial intelligence (AI), they account for only 22% of the workforce.
“Addressing these disparities requires united efforts to ensure that women and girls can fully participate and thrive in the digital world”, he said.
The organization called on private, public and international bodies to support the project which is aimed at providing girls with quality education, mentorship and opportunities needed to wedge the storm of life and enhance the girl child growth.
“Our project is dedicated to providing girls with access to quality education, mentorship, and opportunities that will help them break barriers and reach their full potential.
“We are calling on sponsors to partner with us in this transformative mission. By supporting our project, you will be directly contributing to the growth and development of young girls who will become tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, and changemakers.
“Together, we can create a future where every girl has the opportunity to thrive, make an impact, and live beyond the limitations of societal norms.
“Your support can help us make this vision a reality. Join us in empowering girls and shaping a brighter future for all.”