By Ariku Lucy Owopoha

In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, technological skills have become the cornerstone of success and advancement.

The ability to navigate and utilize technology effectively is crucial for individuals to thrive in various aspects of life. While technology has opened up countless opportunities for all genders, it is essential to pay particular attention to empowering the girl child in this digital era. Gone are those days when all parents do was to register their girl child in fashion designing, beauty salons, make-up, etc, with the rise of technology, there is an unprecedented opportunity to bridge the gender gap and provide girls with the tools they need to succeed. By equipping them with technological skills, we can unlock a world of possibilities and empower them to break through barriers.

One of the fundamental benefits of imparting technological skills to girls is the enhancement of educational opportunities. Technology has revolutionized the way we learn, making knowledge accessible at the click of a button. By ensuring that girls have equal access to technological resources as their male counterparts, this will foster intellectual growth as well as helps girls develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical abilities, which are essential for success in the 21st century.

Moreover, providing girls with technological skills opens doors to various career opportunities. The tech industry is thriving, and demand for skilled professionals continues to rise. By encouraging girls to pursue STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, we can bridge the gender gap in these sectors and promote diversity and innovation. When girls have the necessary technical know-how, they can excel in fields such as computer science, artificial intelligence, robotics, and software development, to name a few. Empowering girls in these domains not only benefits them individually but also contributes to the overall progress of society.

Furthermore, technological skills equip girls with the tools to become creators rather than mere consumers and dependents, or continue to be. In today's digital age, innovation and creativity are highly valued. By encouraging girls to explore technological skills like coding, programming, and digital design, we empower them to express their ideas and bring them to life. Whether it's building websites, developing mobile applications, or designing user interfaces, technological skills give girls the power to shape the future and make a tangible impact on the world around them.

Additionally, fostering technological skills in girls promotes digital literacy and online safety. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial to equip girls with the knowledge and skills to navigate the digital realm responsibly. By teaching them about online privacy, cybersecurity, and responsible internet usage,rather than just uploading tiktok videos. we can ensure their safety in an increasingly interconnected world. Moreover, technological proficiency enables girls to utilize digital platforms for self-expression, networking, and accessing valuable information, thus empowering them to become informed and engaged citizens.

To achieve these goals, it is essential to address the existing barriers that hinder girls' access to technological education. These barriers may include limited access to technology and digital resources, stereotypes that discourage girls from pursuing technical fields, and societal expectations that prioritize traditional gender roles. By investing in infrastructure, providing mentorship programs, and challenging gender biases, we can create an inclusive environment where girls can thrive and develop their technological skills.

In conclusion, empowering the girl child with technological skills is a powerful way to bridge the gender gap and unlock a world of opportunities. By ensuring equal access to technological resources, promoting STEM education, fostering creativity, and addressing barriers, we can create a future where girls can fully participate and contribute to the digital age. Empowered girls become empowered women, driving positive change in society and shaping a brighter and more inclusive future for all.