CARICOM marks 10th Girls in ICT Day with focus on empowering young women in tech

The CARICOM Girls in ICT Partnership is gearing up to host a range of activities across the Caribbean as it marks the tenth International Girls in ICT Day on Thursday, 23 April 2026.

Celebrated worldwide each year, the initiative focuses on encouraging more girls and young women to consider studies and careers in Information and Communication Technology (ICT)—a field that continues to shape how we work, communicate, and do business globally.

This year’s regional observance will be coordinated out of the CARICOM Secretariat and will follow the theme: ‘Empower, Educate, Elevate: Building a Future-Ready CARICOM with Girls in ICT.’

The opening ceremony, which begins at 10 AM AST, will feature remarks from Carla Barnett, Shakiah Lewis, and Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava.

Organizers say they expect strong participation from across the region, bringing together teachers, industry professionals, development partners, and students. The goal is to create space for real conversations, shared experiences, and practical ideas on how to close the gender gap in technology and digital careers.

Throughout the day, a lineup of virtual sessions will be streamed live on CARICOM’s digital platforms and the Restore A Sense of I Can (RSC) platform.

These sessions will include ‘Youth Spotlight: Next Gen Leaders Speak,’ discussions on ‘Achieving Gender parity in the age of AI,’ interactive coding activities, and honest conversations about the challenges girls and women still face in the ICT space.

According to the organization, as the Caribbean Community continues to push its digital transformation efforts forward, initiatives like Girls in ICT Day play an important role in making sure no one is left behind. By helping young women build confidence and develop digital skills, the region strengthens its ability to compete in an increasingly tech-driven world.

The CARICOM Girls in ICT Partnership brings together representatives from government ministries, CARICOM institutions and their associates, international agencies, as well as youth, women’s groups, and ICT-focused organisations and programmes.

Anyone interested in taking part is encouraged to register using the QR code featured on the event flyer.