Microsoft Kuwait in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, hosted its ‘Microsoft DigiGirlz Day’ recently at the ‘How Do I Plan My Future Exhibition’ which took place at the Arraya Ballroom.

The DigiGirlz event was hosted in Kuwait as part of the partners in learning agreement that was signed between Microsoft and the Ministry of Education.

The event aims to increase the engagement of female students in technology within an educational framework, a statement from the company said.

In addition, Microsoft hopes that this initiative will encourage more young women to pursue degrees and careers in computer science and computer engineering, with the ultimate goal of narrowing the gender gap in the industry.

Over 220 female students between grades 10-11 from select public schools participated at this year’s event, during which they had the opportunity to interact with Microsoft employees and managers to gain exposure to careers in business and technology and get more insights into the working environment at Microsoft.

“The Microsoft DigiGirlz event is in line with the Ministry’s efforts to reach out to high school girls and increase female participation in the science and technology field,” said Khaled Al Reshaid, undersecretary, Ministry of Education. “By hosting events such as DigiGirlz, we aim to empower female students, help them build successful careers and educate them on technology which is a key element in a knowledge based society.”

Hana Al Sharrah, Ministry of Education, information technology manager, said: “The Information Technology industry has great potential and needs a diverse workforce. Through such initiatives, we hope we inspire some of these young girls to join the future generation of women in IT.”

Ehab Mostafa, country manager, Microsoft Kuwait, said: “Microsoft is committed to partnering with universities and schools to increase the representation of women in IT-related majors by changing the image of technology and creating opportunities attractive to female students. DigiGirlz is an effort to show high-school girl students what the technology industry is all about, what careers are available and to let them see how exciting it is to create something that can truly and positively impact a large number of people.”

The event provided the girls with career planning assistance, information about technology and business roles, thought-provoking exercises and interaction with some of Microsoft’s most exciting technology tools and entertainment devices.

They also took part in hands-on sessions and workshops to learn computer skills such as website development; movie-making; blogging and photosynthesis. – TradeArabia News Service