Microsoft Launches DigiGirlz in India

By: Zain Nabi  |   February 27th, 2013   |   News

Microsoft has launched its programme DigiGirlz in India. The programme aims at raising awareness about technology as a professional industry and motivating women to take up technology as their career. The programme acts as a bridge between young girls and Microsoft’s employees, and allow the women to participate in workshops and trainings offered by Microsoft.

 

DigiGirlz is operational in different parts of the world, showing Microsoft’s determination to encourage youth, especially women, to explore new avenues of professional growth. According to the Times of India, vice president of Microsoft IT, Jacky Wright, recently visited India and launched the programme. She said:

 

“Lack of women in sciences and engineering is a global problem. Awareness is the key,” adding: “The students are aware of technology more than ever before. Almost 100% of them have Facebook accounts, but the idea is to make them think of technology as a career.”

 

In India, the number of female students attending different technology institutes is very low as compared to the male students. However, many experts are of the view that this trend will change with time as now more and more female students are taking keen interest in the technology sector and want to pursue their career in the industry.

 

India and some other similar markets have potential of producing innovative market practitioners and Microsoft’s training can seriously help them shine in their respective areas of interest within the technology sector.

 

The DigiGirlz programme offers a DigiGirlz Day during which students get a chance to interact with Microsoft employees who share their experience of working with the company and in the industry. According to Microsoft:

 

“This exciting event provides girls with career planning assistance, information about technology and business roles, thought-provoking exercises, and interesting Microsoft product demonstrations. By participating in the Microsoft DigiGirlz Day, young women can find out about the variety of opportunities available in the high-tech industry and can explore future career paths.”

 

As part of the DigiGirlz programme, Microsoft also offers a High Tech Camp during which “the girls listen to executive speakers, participate in technology tours and demonstrations, network, and learn through hands-on experience in workshop.”