Full Breakdown
Empowering Girls Through Digital Skills Initiatives in Africa
10/27/2025, 9:37:51 PM
Launch of the AGCCI ICT Hub in Uganda
UN Women, in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), inaugurated the Eastern Region African Girls Can Code Initiative (AGCCI) ICT Hub at Wanyange Girls’ Secondary School in Jinja District, Uganda. This initiative aims to enhance digital inclusion and empower young women in Uganda's technology-driven economy. The hub, equipped with 60 modern computers, will provide hands-on training in coding, digital literacy, multimedia, and innovation. It also serves as a mentorship and networking space, connecting AGCCI alumnae with current learners to foster problem-solving, creativity, and leadership development.
Ms. Adekemi Ndieli, UN Women Country Deputy Representative, emphasized the importance of access to technology for girls, stating, “When girls are given access to technology and opportunity, they don’t just participate—they lead.” The AGCCI program targets girls aged 17–25, aiming to equip them with skills for careers in ICT and STEM, thereby contributing to Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education) and 5 (Gender Equality).
Impact and Reach of AGCCI
Since its inception in 2018, the AGCCI program has reached over 2,000 girls across Africa, with 240 young women in Uganda participating in its third phase. Evaluations indicate transformative outcomes, such as increased female enrollment in vocational ICT programs, which rose from 18% to 64% in regions like Karamoja. Many alumnae have established ICT businesses and introduced technology courses in schools, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in bridging the gender digital divide.
Future Plans and Expansion
Looking ahead, UN Women plans to expand AGCCI across Uganda by enhancing mentorship networks and establishing additional regional hubs, including one at Kyebambe Girls’ Secondary School in Western Uganda. Ms. Ndieli described the ICT Hubs as “launchpads for innovation, leadership, and equality,” reinforcing the commitment to empowering girls in the digital space.
Criticism and Challenges
Despite the positive developments, stakeholders have called for increased investments in education and technology to ensure that girls can thrive in a digital world. At The Girls Summit 2025, experts highlighted the need for affordable digital plans and emphasized that both boys and girls should be educated on safe internet use. They pointed out that high costs and limited access to technology remain significant barriers for many young girls.
Verbatim Quotes
- “When girls are given access to technology and opportunity, they don’t just participate—they lead,” — Ms. Adekemi Ndieli, UN Women Country Deputy Representative.
- “Talent is universal, opportunity rarely is,” — Ambassador Dr. Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, Chairperson of OIF.
- “Digital literacy is not an end in itself but a means to becoming financially empowered.” — Ayodele Olojede, Divisional Head, Wema Bank.
Conclusion
The AGCCI ICT Hub represents a significant step towards empowering girls in Uganda through digital skills training. As initiatives like AGCCI expand, they not only aim to bridge the gender digital divide but also to foster a generation of young women who can lead in technology and innovation. However, ongoing challenges related to access and safety in the digital space must be addressed to ensure that all girls can benefit from these opportunities.
