Girls in ICT Prize Presentation

Girls in ICT Day 2024 Addresses Critical Need for Female Role Models in STEM Careers 

In conjunction with the International Girls in ICT Day 2024, the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) organised a motivational talk and experience sharing sessions following this year’s theme of “Leadership”. The event was held at Brunei Energy Hub Dermaga Diraja and was attended by more than seventy (70) Year 7 to Year 11 female students from the government and private schools.  

The event began with opening remarks by Asimah binti Haji Hassan, Assistant Chief Executive of AITI. In her opening remarks, she acknowledged the critical need for strong female role models in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers. She also highlighted that to thrive in STEM, exposure to women in leadership positions is essential to girls and young women in order to inspire them to pursue careers in STEM.  This visibility helps to break down stereotypes, boosts confidence, and inspires ambition, showing young women that their aspirations in STEM are achievable. Moreover, having female leaders in STEM encourages a more inclusive and diverse environment, which can foster innovation and create a supportive network for future generations. 

The event then proceeded with a sharing session on “Girls in Cybersecurity: Paving the Way for a Safer Digital Future” by Zara Laila Abdul Hadi, Blockchain Consultant, ITPSS Sdn Bhd, followed by Alia Alkaff, Founder and Creative Director, Studio Mushi who delivered a topic on  

“Braving Through Challenges in Graphic Design”. The Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) Team from Sengkurong Sixth Form Centre consisting of Grizabella Tonny, Natasya Emeralda Leong binti Mohammad Haziman, and Nur Hamizah Syazwana binti Haji Zul Amali also shared some thoughts related to “Inspiring Future Leaders through the Power of ICT”. 

These sessions allowed for the sharing of knowledge and leadership experiences in the speakers’ respective field of expertise, such as blockchain and graphic design to empower female youth to pursue careers in STEM. This was followed by a panel discussion on the theme of “Empowering Girls in STEM Leadership” moderated by Nurhayati binti Haji Mokim, Manager, AITI.  

The event concluded with a prize presentation ceremony for the Digital Arts Competition held in conjunction with the International Girls in ICT Day 2024, which opened from 25 April 2024 until 20 May 2024.  

Winners for the two categories (Category 1 – Year 7, 8 and 9 and Category 2 – Year 10 and 11) were presented with cash prizes and certificates by AITI’s Assistant Chief Executive. 

“Girls in ICT Day” is an initiative backed by International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to create a global environment that empowers and encourages girls and young women to consider careers in the growing field of ICT. It is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of April annually and this year, the “Girls in ICT Day” is observed on 25 April 2024.  

Winners’ List 

Category 1 – Year 7, 8, and 9 

Category 2 – Year 10 and 11