Lafarge Africa Plc has launched a Girls in Tech Programme, a pioneering initiative aimed at empowering young women in technology in Cross River state. The programme was held at Hogis Hotel, Calabar recently.
According to the company, this aims to bridge the gender gap in tech and empower 10 young females between the ages of 18-25 years from Lafarge Africa Host communities in Cross River State, this programme is poised to make a significant impact in the region.
Speaking at the event, the Plant Manager at Lafarge Africa Plc, Sotirios Valsamakis, represented by the Human Resources Business Partner at Lafarge Africa Plc, Barong Ita, said that the programme is in line with the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
She added that the initiative is designed to ignite a spark of inspiration, hope, and possibilities in the hearts of the selected girls across the host communities.
She said, “As an organization, people are an integral part of our sustainability drive, and we are invested in building lasting progress by empowering members of our host communities. We also recognize the need for greater and greener diversity and inclusivity within the tech sector. Today’s event is not just about launching a program. It is about igniting a spark of inspiration, hope, and possibilities in the hearts of these young women. It is about challenging stereotypes.”
Also speaking at the event, the Cross Rivers State Commissioner for Science, Innovation & Technology, Justin Beshel represented by Edwin Adie, Technical Senior Advisor, Cross Rivers State Ministry of Science & Technology, commended Lafarge Africa for the initiative adding that it is in line with the State government’s plan towards science, technology and innovation development.
He said, “We like to appreciate Lafarge for onboarding the girls in the tech programme because it’s in tandem with what we believe in and we are happy to see Lafarge as an esteemed partner in driving our people to getting this opportunity.”
The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Edeme commended Lafarge Africa for investing in the girl child, she said, “Gender equality is a cross-cutting issue that affects all the 17 SDG goals. These Girls in Tech onboarding programmes can be leveraged to deliver a transformative impact on our society and our state. On this note, permit me to thank the Girls in Tech team of Lafarge, all the supporting organisations, and our esteemed Girls in tech ambassadors.”
Some of the beneficiaries expressed appreciation to Lafarge Africa for the opportunity while pledging to take the six-month’ programme seriously as well as replicate the knowledge acquired in other girls in their communities.
The event was also attended by the State Commissioner for Environment, program partners from the Bridge Leadership Foundation, Aptech, Arena Media, and representatives of some of the host communities.