NIWIIT Launches Campus Tech Queens Initiative to Empower Female Students in Tech

 


The Nigerian Women in Information Technology (NIWIIT) has launched Campus Tech Queens Initiative (NCTQI), a national programme aimed at preparing female students in tertiary institutions for global digital excellence and technology leadership.


The initiative, which was officially launched on Wednesday, at Kogi State Polytechnic Lokoja, is a hackathon-driven, mentorship-based programme that will identify, train, mentor, and showcase female tech talents across Nigerian campuses.


Speaking at the launch, NIWIIT President, Dr Oluwakemi Ayodele, said the programme is designed to bridge the gender gap in the technology ecosystem.


She emphasised that the initiative would promote gender inclusion, professional development, and technological advancement for women and girls in IT.


According to her, NCTQI will run through six stages, including campus sensitization and registration, capacity building and training, mentorship and ideation.


"The state-level hackathon competition, national grand finale, and post-hackathon incubation and leadership development," she said.


Dr Ayodele urged female students to take advantage of the initiative, saying, "The digital economy needs your voice, your creativity, and your brilliance."


She appealed to state governments to support the initiative, saying, "Let's work together to develop local solutions and drive innovation. 


"We urge governments to partner with us and build a stronger, tech-advanced Nigeria."


The state's Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Helen Aderibigbe, in her keynote address, commended NIWIIT's initiative and pledging her ministry's partnership. 


She reaffirmed the state government's commitment to promoting digital skills, collaborating with tech hubs, and empowering youth.


"I don't just offer words, I offer you a partnership," 


"My ministry is committed to supporting this initiative, expanding broadband access, and driving technological advancement for the benefit of our youth and the state," Dr Aderibigbe said. 


She encouraged female students to explore their potential and contribute to Nigeria's tech growth.


The Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Jones, represented by the Ministry's Director of Tertiary Education, Alh. Abdulrahman Mohammed, reaffirmed government's commitment to promoting initiative that support girl child Education and empowerment.


Prof Sanusi Avidime, the Rector, Kogi State Polytechnic, praised the initiative and assured the association of the support of the institution.


Chairman of the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) Kogi State Chapter, Mr Godwin Sani, praised the initiative, saying it is "timely, strategic, and visionary".


He noted that the initiative will provide female students with structured pathways to grow, compete, collaborate, and lead in technology.


Sani pledged the support of NCS Kogi chapter, saying the initiative aligns with the society's mission to promote digital literacy, innovation, and bridge existing gender gaps in computing and information technology.


Female participants at the event, including Rachel Ojo from Federal University Lokoja and Damilola Akere from Kogi Polytechnic, praised the programme as "top-notch" and beneficial. 


Ojo said, "It's a great programme that can benefit many females, teaching them valuable skills that can impact their lives. I learned a lot and will encourage others to join."


Akere added, "The programme encouraged us in tech, teaching us to be bold and courageous. It stood out among other events, and I really learned a lot." 


Both students expressed gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity.


The launch was attended by representatives from the NCS, NIWIIT,, institutional partners, and stakeholders including virtual attendees, who have worked tirelessly to bring the vision to life.


The highlight of the event is the launch of the NIWIIT Campus Tech Queens Initiative (NCTQI) by the Commissioner for Innovation Science and Technology Dr Helen Aderibigbe.


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