SDN’s Initiative Empowers Women for Better Job Opportunities and Business Growth
The Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN) has successfully trained 1,600 women in digital skills in Port Harcourt. This effort aims to reduce the gender gap in technology within the Niger Delta, providing women with tools to enhance their businesses and secure employment.
The Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN) has taken a significant step towards empowering women in the Niger Delta by training 1,600 women in various digital skills. This initiative, funded by the European Union, seeks to address the gender disparity in the tech sector and equip women with the necessary tools to thrive in a digital economy.
Florence Ibok Abasi, SDN’s Country Director, highlighted that the programme focuses on supporting women-led businesses and unemployed female graduates. “Our goal is to equip them with digital skills to make their businesses more financially viable or to help them access job opportunities, whether as interns, volunteers, or in paid positions, both locally and internationally,” she explained.
The project, which began in Rivers and Akwa Ibom states, has received positive feedback from participants. Many women reported increased confidence, improved business performance, and better job prospects. The success of this pilot phase has sparked interest from other states in the Niger Delta, with many recognising that digital skills can open doors to global opportunities.
Ibok Abasi emphasised the transformative impact of the programme, stating that it’s not just about acquiring skills but also about empowering women to transform their communities. She noted that by providing financial empowerment, these women can support their families and contribute to the broader society.
The SDN plans to expand this initiative, aiming to reach more women across the Niger Delta and continue bridging the gender gap in the tech industry.
