In what has been described as promoting Digital Literacy among girls from low economic status, TechPearl is running a project called SysHive.
Syshive is a project that train girls from low economic background in different digital skills with an aim of equipping them with valuable skills, computer literacy, and innovations.
Through SysHive program, the girls are trained in introduction to computer, web development, JavaScript, cybersecurity entrepreneurship and graphic design.
Earlier this month, girls were taught graphic design course in a bid to expand their artistic abilities.
Speaking in an interview with ProjectM, TechPearl Malawi Chief Operations Officer Isabel Kapeza expressed satisfaction with the response from the girls.
“We are training girls aged 17 to 28 in various digital skills and web development, and now we are focusing on graphic design. This training will benefit them in their day-to-day lives”, she said.
She said: “We also saw the need to expose them to cyber security cause especially now that issues of cyber security continue to pose a threat on the lives of the girls.”, she said.
According to Kapeza, their research revealed a gender disparity in graphic design, with fewer girls expressing interest to participate compared to boys.
“The goal is to reach out to more girls and offer them these opportunities. We believe that through this skill, girls can better express their creativity and feelings through design and other related areas,” she added.
In his remarks, Facilitator Franco Mwachande emphasized that the training addresses graphic designing gap between boys and girls and expressed confidence that the girls will use their new skills to advance their careers.
“These skills will enable the girls to pursue various careers or start businesses, said a graphic designer cum journalist.
One of the participants for the training, Lydia Kabvere commended the training, saying it equipped her with invaluable skills to start her own graphic design business.
“I encourage my fellow participants to take the training seriously,” she said.
At the end of the two-week course, participants received a certificate of attendance. So far 10 girls have been trained into graphic designing for free.
