On 22 November 2024, the CEPIS Women in ICT Expert Group hosted a focused workshop with representatives from Cypriot universities to address the ongoing gender imbalance in technology. Delegates from institutions including the European University of Cyprus, the University of Nicosia, the University of Limassol, Frederick University, and the Open University of Cyprus came together to share insights and identify actionable solutions.
The session began with an introduction to CEPIS and its DiversIT initiative, followed by a discussion on the factors deterring girls and women from pursuing studies and careers in technology. Participants agreed that early intervention is crucial, with efforts needed to reach girls in primary and secondary schools, as well as to engage parents and teachers, many of whom still perceive STEM as a field better suited to boys.
Challenges in higher education and the workplace were also explored, including entrenched stereotypes and biases, a lack of female role models, and significant pay disparities. Some participants noted that in addressing pay gaps, companies sometimes resort to reducing male salaries rather than increasing female ones, a practice that discourages talent in tech fields.
The discussion also highlighted a narrow understanding of tech careers, with many students associating IT solely with coding. Participants emphasised the need to showcase the wide range of roles available in technology, which might better align with diverse interests. CEPIS introduced its IT Professionalism Europe initiative, which promotes advanced skills frameworks to broaden awareness of tech job profiles.
Participants shared examples of their ongoing initiatives, such as scholarships for girls, STEM outreach days, and parent-focused events, expressing a desire for better collaboration among universities to ensure lasting impact. They also discussed their Gender Equality Plans (GEPs), required by the European Commission for EU-funded projects. While most had implemented GEPs using provided templates, challenges in following through on specific actions were noted.
The workshop concluded with several next steps:
- Organising an in-person event in Cyprus, led by the Cyprus Computer Society, with CEPIS offering support for speakers.
- Hosting online events to share best practices across the CEPIS network.
- Inviting participants to join DiversIT as Allied Members to strengthen efforts in promoting gender diversity in ICT.
The session ended with a networking lunch, leaving participants committed to advancing collaboration and tackling the cultural and systemic barriers women face in technology.
