The Ministry of Telecommunications and the Information Society (MINTEL) announced on Apr. 23 that it organized a commemorative event for International Girls in ICT Day to encourage girls and adolescents to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), with a focus on Information and Communication Technologies (ICT).
The initiative aims to reduce the gender digital divide and promote technological inclusion by fostering digital skills among young women. The event was held at the Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas (ESPE) in Sangolquí, with support from university officials as well as national authorities.
During her speech at the event, Vice President María José Pinto said that closing the gender gap in technology is essential. “The participation of women is fundamental to building an inclusive digital future,” she said. Pinto urged attendees to be courageous when facing technological challenges, adding that confidence comes through effort and perseverance. She reaffirmed her commitment to transforming history from communities and schools: “Every idea and workshop is the beginning of real change where women not only learn technology but lead the creation of solutions for the world.”
Minister Roberto Kury also addressed participants: “This date invites us to reflect on the transformative role of girls and young women in our lives and especially in building more just, inclusive, and sustainable societies.”
Colonel Mauricio González, rector of ESPE, highlighted that over 700 girls participated directly with hands-on technology experiences during this event: “Today, more than 700 girls have the opportunity to interact with real technology…and above all see themselves as future scientists, engineers, researchers, and leaders of technological change.” He affirmed ESPE’s commitment by making its facilities available for such initiatives.
Other national authorities joined representatives from academic institutions as well as public- and private-sector partners at over 20 interactive stands focused on practical ICT learning. Since November 2023 until March 2025 more than 158 thousand girls aged five to seventeen have received training across four hundred ICT topics through free Digital Points nationwide.
The government reiterated its commitment to advancing digital equity while promoting a more inclusive society oriented toward innovation.
