Africa-Press – Angola. The director of the Registry and Administrative Modernisation Office of Cunene Province, Pelágio Pukulukeni, encouraged women and girls on Thursday to pursue careers in technology, with the aim of including them in projects that impact citizens’ lives.
Speaking on the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on February 11, he said that promoting and mobilizing female participation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields is essential.
According to Pukulukeni, digital inclusion is not just about ‘learning to use computers’, but ensuring that Angolan women have the tools to create technology, not just consume it.
Pukulukeni clarified that the digital world provides a platform for reporting gender-based violence and participating in discussions about public management, thereby bringing citizens closer to institutions via public service portals.
He also highlighted the use of distance learning platforms and digital libraries, which have enabled girls living in remote areas to access curricular content and technical courses without having to travel.
However, he stressed that, despite advances in this area, data from the National Institute of Statistics shows that 26% of men have internet access compared to just 16% of women.
The disparity is even more pronounced in rural areas, where overall access falls to around two percent, emphasizing that the day aims to recognize the critical role that women play in science and technology, and to promote full and equal access to these fields.
Established by the United Nations in 2015, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science seeks to promote the access of, and equitable participation of, women in science and technology (STEM).
It seeks to break stereotypes, encourage scientific careers, and celebrate women’s contributions.
