"Girls to Code" Program Launches in Dhidhdhoo

The fifth edition of the "Girls to Code" series, a program hosted by local telecom provider Dhiraagu and the non-profit organization Women in Tech Maldives, has commenced in Dhidhdhoo, located in Haa Alif Atoll. Running until the end of August, the initiative is dedicated to female participants aged 10 to 13 who are enrolled in middle and secondary schools.

Dhiraagu previously stated that the purpose of "Girls to Code" is to spark an interest in technology among young female minds and increase female participation in the tech field. The program is designed for children with no prior coding knowledge, equipping them with extensive coding skills through practical sessions, including building basic websites.

Bishara Hameed, Manager of Corporate Social Responsibility at Dhiraagu, emphasized that empowering women is a key target of the company's CSR program. She expressed that the aim of hosting a coding program in Dhidhdhoo is to nurture coding talent among young girls while boosting their self-confidence. Bishara hopes that the program will cultivate a new generation of female leaders and promote effective engagement of women in the technology industry.

Mariyam Asna Saeed, President of Women in Tech Maldives, added that the program not only teaches coding but also essential digital skills for the 21st century, encouraging creativity and invention. The program focuses on the three primary 'front end' languages for website design: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

"Girls to Code" is a series introduced by Dhiraagu in partnership with Women in Tech, targeting different regions across the Maldives. The program has previously seen success in Gnaviyani Atoll Fuvahmulah in the southern province, Haa Dhaalu Atoll Kulhudhuffushi in the upper north province, and Laamu Atoll in the upper south province.

This initiative in Dhidhdhoo is part of a broader effort to foster an inclusive tech community and ensure that young girls across the Maldives have the opportunity to develop valuable skills and pursue careers in technology. By bringing coding education to the northernmost atoll of the Maldives, Dhiraagu and Women in Tech Maldives aim to make a lasting impact on the local community and inspire the next generation of female tech leaders.