Dhiraagu and Women in Tech Maldives’ Girls to Code Malé Edition empowers future women in technology

Dhiraagu, in collaboration with Women in Tech Maldives, has successfully concluded the Girls to Code Malé Edition.

This flagship initiative aims to equip young women, with no prior experience with essential coding skills, supporting their entry into the technology sector.

A total of 17 girls graduated from the Malé Edition, bringing the overall number of graduates to 108 since the programme's inception.

The closing ceremony of the Girls to Code Malé Edition was attended by several key figures, including the Minister of Higher Education, Labour, and Skills Development Dr. Ali Haidar Ahmed, who attended as the Chief Guest.

The event also saw the participation of Dhiraagu’s CEO and Managing Director Ismail Rasheed, and President of Women in Tech Maldives Nahza Ibrahim, along with other senior officials from both Dhiraagu and Women in Tech Maldives.

Minister Haidar highlighted the transformative role of technology, emphasizing the significance of acquiring the necessary skills to navigate and use it effectively in daily life. He expressed gratitude to Dhiraagu and Women in Tech Maldives for their efforts in running the Girls to Code programme across the country, empowering women and contributing to a more inclusive society.

This year, the programme expanded its target age range to include participants aged 16 to 30. It also focused on career development and industry engagement through the "Tech & Beyond" career guidance workshop. This component allowed participants to explore potential career paths in technology while connecting with female role models from the industry.

Dhiraagu’s CEO and MD reiterated the company’s commitment to empowering women in technology, which is a key component of Dhiraagu’s sustainability strategy. He noted that through their partnership with Women in Tech Maldives, many young women have gained valuable skills, built confidence and explored diverse opportunities. He congratulated all participants who completed the programme, wishing them success in applying the skills learned to advance their careers and personal growth.

The President of Women in Tech Maldives also expressed appreciation for Dhiraagu’s continued support in making the programme a reality. She reiterated that the goal of the initiative is for participants to continue building on the skills they have acquired and to pursue further upskilling to support their educational and professional development.

Throughout the programme, participants received hands-on training in basic coding skills. Despite starting with no prior coding experience, they were able to independently code and build mini portfolio websites by the programme's conclusion.

In addition to this, they worked on capstone projects, benefiting from mentorship and guidance provided by industry professionals.

Since its inception in 2019, a total of 108 young women have successfully completed the Girls to Code programme.

The series has expanded its reach across the Maldives, with previous editions held in Fuvahmulah, Kulhudhuffushi, Thinadhoo, Laamu atoll, and Dhidhdhoo. The programme continues to grow in both scale and impact, laying a solid foundation for young women pursuing careers in technology.

Both Dhiraagu and Women in Tech Maldives remain committed to bridging the gender gap in the tech industry and fostering a more inclusive digital economy in the Maldives. Through initiatives such as Girls to Code, they continue to empower young women across the nation.