SENATOR Cynthia Villar encouraged women to enroll in Information and Communication Technology courses as she cited the importance for women to embrace technological advancements.

“This is crucial as we face the challenges and seize the opportunities of the digital age,” said Villar during the 18th Annual General Assembly of the Philippine Federation of Local Councils of Women.

“By doing so, we can empower women to become leaders, innovators, and key decision-makers in the digital economy,” she added.

Villar said only 24% of women globally enroll in Information and Communication Technology courses.

She said this leads to a shortage of skilled workers.

In the Philippines, the senator said this figure is slightly higher at 30-40%, but still insufficient.

“We are missing the potential contributions of over half our population in developing a strong digital economy,” she said.

She noted that the gender digital divide hinders women’s digital empowerment.

Globally, 70% of men use the internet compared to 65% of women.

In low and middle-income countries, she said women are 15% less likely to use mobile internet.

She emphasized that addressing this ‘divide’ is very urgent as nearly 90% of jobs will require digital skills by 2025.

“We, in the Philippine Senate, continue our commitment to address the challenges and opportunities in the digital world through various laws and bills,” related the senator.