Digital transformation offers unique opportunities to reduce inequalities and promote social inclusion. In Côte d’Ivoire, new initiatives highlight the potential of digital technology to empower women.

The Ivorian Ministry of Women, Family, and Children (MFFE), U.S. companies Cybastion and Cisco Tech, signed a tripartite partnership agreement on Tuesday, December 17, in Abidjan. This initiative aims to train 3,000 women in digital skills by 2025 through Cisco's "Network Academy" (NetAcad) educational platform.

"Empowering women to master technology is an investment in the future. It is planting the seeds of sustainable prosperity for future generations," said Minister Nassénéba Touré. She emphasized that the program will have tangible and transformative impacts on Ivorian women and society as a whole.

The agreement is part of the MFFE's commitments to bridging the digital divide and empowering women through technological tools. It follows the launch of the "DigitFemmes" program, in partnership with Cybastion, which aims to train 1,000 women across Côte d’Ivoire.

Since its inception in 1997, the NetAcad platform has trained over 24 million people in 191 countries, demonstrating its effectiveness in creating career opportunities in the digital sector. The platform provides training in key areas such as cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. Its deployment in Côte d’Ivoire is expected to equip Ivorian women with highly sought-after skills in the job market, strengthening their leadership, financial independence, and contribution to the country’s digital economy.

By Samira Njoya,

Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji