Happy International Girls in ICT Day from ACS

Highlights

International Girls in ICT Day celebrates the vital role of women in technology and calls for greater gender diversity in the digital world. With this year’s theme, “Girls in ICT for Inclusive Digital Transformation,” the day highlights the need to inspire the next generation of girls to explore careers in tech. Across Australia, schools, organisations and programs are creating opportunities for young women to connect, learn and lead in ICT.

 
Lovelace circa 1840 Hulton Archive/Getty

📅 When is it?

International Girls in ICT Day is celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday in April, and in 2025, it falls on April 24.

 

🌍 What is it?

This day was established in 2011 by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a United Nations specialised agency for digital technologies. The purpose is to create awareness about the need for more girls and women in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector.

The initiative aims to inspire and encourage girls to pursue studies and careers in ICT, thereby bridging the gender gap in this field.

 

💡 Why it matters

The importance of International Girls in ICT Day cannot be overstated. It highlights the significant role that women can play in the tech industry and emphasizes the need for gender diversity in ICT.

Women bring unique perspectives and skills to the tech world, which can lead to more innovative and inclusive solutions. By encouraging more girls to enter ICT, we can ensure a more balanced workforce and develop technology that serves everyone.

 

🎯 Themes through the years

Over the years, the day has been celebrated with various themes, such as:

  • Expand Horizons, Change Attitudes

  • Girls in ICT: Inspiring the Next Generation

  • Connected Girls, Creating Brighter Futures

This year’s theme is:

"Girls in ICT for Inclusive Digital Transformation"

Celebrations around the world include coding workshops, presentations, robotics competitions, virtual workshops, webinars, and mentorship programs where girls can interact with female role models in tech.

These activities are designed to provide hands-on experience and exposure to the possibilities within the ICT field.

 

📊 Where we are now

Despite progress, female representation in STEM fields remains low.

According to Digital Pulse (2024):

  • Women now make up 30% of the tech workforce – only a 1.2% increase since 2013

  • Only 43% of women in tech are in managerial positions, compared to 50% of men

  • A gender pay gap of $12,600 per year remains, even when adjusted for seniority

 

📌 The importance of representation

The lack of female representation in tech affects the development and implementation of technology.

Diverse teams bring a broad range of experiences and perspectives, which can lead to more effective and inclusive solutions.

It is crucial to have women at the table when designing and deploying technology that impacts all aspects of our lives.

 

🏫 Success stories in schools

Mansfield State High School in Queensland has reported that targeted initiatives have helped ensure female students are part of the growth in the school’s Digital Solutions courses.

The school’s Digital Girls Program has provided a range of opportunities for prospective students to understand the study and career options available to them. (Source: Digital Pulse, 2024)

 

👩‍🏫 ACS' support for Girls in ICT

The ACS’ very own ICT Gateway to Industry Schools Project in Queensland has supported International Girls in ICT Day since 2021.

In 2025, at least seven ICT GISP schools will celebrate with a special school event. These events typically involve guest speakers from the industry sharing their journeys with students, and in some cases, hands-on workshops and demonstrations.

 

🤝 Encouraging girls to participate

Encouraging young girls to participate in special programs and supporting learning opportunities is key to inspiring them to consider STEM and building confidence in their abilities.

There are a number of organisations and initiatives across Australia that are making a difference, including:

 

🧠 Who was the pioneering mathematician and world's first computer programmer?

Women have a long history of enacting change and excellence in STEM and IT. 

Ada Lovelace, often recognised as the world’s first computer programmer, worked with Charles Babbage on the Analytical Engine. Her work was so ahead of her time that it laid the foundation for future developments in computing.

Ada Lovelace Day is celebrated on the second Tuesday in October to honour her achievements and the contributions of women in STEM.

 

Conclusion

International Girls in ICT Day is more than just a celebration—it is a call to action.

It promotes gender diversity in the tech industry and celebrates the potential of young women.

As an industry, we need to inspire and empower the next generation of girls in ICT to grow the talent pipeline and build a more inclusive digital future.

 

Written by Matthew Jorgensen

Matthew is the Education Pathways & Partnerships Manager at ACS. 

Connect with Matthew 

 

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