The TechSis 2024 cohort, an initiative by GetBundi Education Technology, was officially launched, marking another significant stride in advancing digital literacy for women across Africa. During the virtual onboarding ceremony, former Liberian Vice President, Senator Jewel Howard-Taylor, encouraged the 1,000 beneficiaries to seize this unique opportunity to gain transformative skills in Web Development and Data Analytics, two pivotal areas shaping the future of technology.
Howard-Taylor highlighted the exclusivity of the program, reminding participants that while they were fortunate to secure a spot, many others could not. She urged them to embrace the training as a step towards bridging the digital gender divide and driving inclusivity in technology across Africa.
Empowering Women through Technology
TechSis, a flagship program under the GetBundi Education Foundation, focuses on equipping African women with critical digital skills for free. Now in its second year, the program aims to address gender disparities in the tech industry while fostering innovation and economic empowerment. While TechSis 2023 centered on Coding, the 2024 edition, running from July to December 2024, will emphasize Web Development and Data Analytics.
Speaking during the event, Senator Howard-Taylor stressed the importance of digital literacy as a tool for addressing economic inequalities and increasing access to employment opportunities. She elaborated, “Digital skills not only open up a world of opportunities but also help women challenge traditional roles, fight discrimination, and narrow the gender gap in the workforce.”
She further explained how digitalization has eased the burden of balancing professional careers and family life, making it possible for women to work remotely without sacrificing personal responsibilities. “Women today no longer need to choose between being a wife or a mother and having a career. The digital space has made it possible to achieve both,” she added.
Breaking Barriers through Innovation
Encouraging the beneficiaries to overcome their fears of technology, Howard-Taylor emphasized the transformative power of digital tools. “Once you master the tools taught in this program, you will discover a world of unlimited possibilities. Let go of any fear and dive into this training with confidence,” she urged.
She also called on GetBundi to expand its reach to countries like Sierra Leone and Liberia, which are still building their digital ecosystems, to further empower women across the continent.
Call to Action from Leadership
Barr. Osita Oparaugo, Founder and CEO of GetBundi Education Technology, addressed the participants, emphasizing the program’s competitive nature. Out of 10,000 applicants, only 1,000 were selected, highlighting the prestige of being part of TechSis 2024.
He reminded participants that while the training is free, its value is immense. “Someone has invested in your future to ensure you gain essential skills for the evolving job market. These skills will set you apart in a world prioritizing adaptability, technical proficiency, and hands-on experience,” he said.
Oparaugo urged the participants to remain committed, acknowledging that the journey would not be easy but reassuring them that success was achievable. “Many before you have completed this journey. Stay focused and see it through to the end,” he added.
Collaborative Support and Special Guests
The ceremony also featured notable personalities, including Mrs. Victoria Nalongo Namusisi, Uganda’s first female sports and political journalist, who co-chaired the event, and Nigeria’s Minister for Women Affairs, Barrister Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, who served as the Special Guest of Honour. The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs also sponsored 300 women from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to participate in the program, further demonstrating collaborative efforts to enhance women’s access to digital skills.
A Vision for the Future
GetBundi Education Technology’s TechSis initiative continues to shine as a beacon of hope for African women seeking to break barriers in the tech industry. By fostering digital literacy and inclusivity, the program is equipping women with the tools they need to drive economic progress, innovate, and inspire future generations across the continent.
