Intel Backs First Ever Technology Camp for Girls in Nigeria

Leading global chip makers and sponsors of tomorrow, Intel Corporation has thrown its weight behind the first-ever technology camp for girls in Nigeria.

The camp, set up by the Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre, is a two-week technology education and mentoring programme designed to help girls develop an early interest in computers and other information technology.

Intel has over the years supported several girl-child education initiatives investing in technology-based programmes in education and digital literacy, and has championed the empowerment of women and girls, around the world. Working together with its wide range of partners across Africa and the world, Intel has created and supported innovative solutions to remove gender-based barriers to education and technology, and to build a flourishing future filled with opportunities for girls and women.

Speaking on the initiative, the Executive Director of the Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC), Ms Oreoluwa Somolu, explained that the technology camp examines a variety of strategies that enable female students maximize their learning experiences and make them better equipped to pursue careers in technology.

“In the long term, we hope to achieve a significant increase in the number of technology literate Nigerian women that will ultimately deploy the knowledge they have for productive learning, professional and leadership activities. We also hope to increase the number of women creating and developing new technology and content,” She stated.

The camp has run consistently for five years, throwing its doors open to secondary school students all over Nigeria and involving them in activities such as graphic design, movie-making, web design and introduction to programming. During the camp, the girls also participate in technology workshops and leadership activities for an all-round experience.

On the partnership, Country Manager, Intel, Olubunmi Ekundare said: “Here at Intel, we believe that girls, when afforded the opportunity, can make more significant impact around the globe through positive leadership and impact in and around their communities and indeed the world. These for us, are the beliefs that drive Intel’s programs to inspire and empower women and girls around the world.”