A non-governmental organisation, Mumsbooth, has successfully trained over 200 girls in various technology and digital skills through its ProjectSTART empowerment programme. The initiative, aimed at introducing young girls to the tech ecosystem, equips them with essential skills for building future careers in the sector.
Under the banner of the Girls in Tech programme, themed Building Future Innovators, the training was conducted both physically and virtually across Nigeria. In partnership with Seamfix and GGTV, the programme targeted girls aged 10 to 19, delivering comprehensive instruction on digital and technological skills.
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Participants were taught mobile device repair, graphic design using Canva, data analysis, digital content creation with AI tools, virtual assistant technologies, product management, and quality assurance.
Founder of Mumsbooth, Martha Tawiyah, shared with The Guardian that the programme goes beyond training. Selected participants will receive scholarships for advanced studies and gain access to internships and mentorship opportunities within the organisation, preparing them for future employment.
“As an engineer and a tech professional, I understand the challenges young girls face transitioning into this space and how under-represented females are in this field,” Mrs Tawiyah said. “I am committed to building as many future innovators as possible through our incubation hub.”
Parents of the participants have lauded the initiative, expressing gratitude for the opportunities it provides.
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Hauwa Rabiu Abubakar, a parent of one of the girls, said, “It was an incredible opportunity for my daughter to participate in the Girls in Tech programme by Mumsbooth. It was truly empowering and inspiring as she was equipped with tech skills. I am committed to ensuring she follows through with other programmes.”
Mumsbooth’s ProjectSTART vocational and skill acquisition programme has positively impacted numerous Nigerian children and women since its inception. Now in its seventh year, the initiative has extended its reach beyond Nigeria to other African countries, including South Africa, Ghana, and Uganda, benefitting over 15,000 individuals.
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Expressing gratitude for the successes recorded, Ms Tawiyah reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to expanding the programme. “We will continue to reach more communities, helping people develop skills that enable them to thrive and become independent,” she said.
With a proven track record of empowering young girls and fostering innovation, ProjectSTART remains a beacon of hope for the next generation of African tech leaders.
