A study carried out on behalf of the IT Education Foundation and Accenture found that Latvia still lacks awareness of the benefits of ensuring equality between women and men in the IT sector. Considerable disproportion of gender representation in this sector is closely linked to deep-rooted stereotypes that technical sciences are more suitable for men.
"In order to reduce stereotypes and help a number of groups of people in the IT sector, and draw public attention to equal pay issues, we are launching the TechMentor - IT messenger initiative and mentoring program from June 3," said Anna Andersone, CEO of Riga TechGirls.
"The participants undertake to promote the prestige of the IT sector and the transfer of their acquired knowledge with a particular focus on the involvement of girls and women in the IT sector. The messengers commit themselves to talking to at least one familiar girl or woman to tell her about career opportunities in the IT sector and to answer their questions," explained Anna Andersone.
The mentor program currently brings together around 70 different experts who commit to providing useful advice at different stages.
"We call for the involvement of other mentors and messengers, men and women, so that everyone comes together to help mitigate stereotypes in the industry, which would bring long-term benefits to the economy."
"TechMentor" partners are Riga TechGirls and the IT company Accenture, supported by Microsoft and LMT.
