Five ways tech can empower women to drive inclusivity and accelerate progress

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it is crucial to recognise the transformative potential of technology in inspiring inclusion and closing the gender gap. While Singapore has a 41 percent female tech workforce according to the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), which surpasses the global average of about 28 percent, true parity remains an ongoing goal.

Technology not only offers career pathways for women but can also be a powerful catalyst for addressing social issues and driving positive change. Here are five ways that technology can bridge the gap, advancing progress.

1.?Harnessing data for progress

Data acts as a powerful tool for identifying areas of improvement. At KPMG, we utilise data-driven insights within our Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (IDE) framework to track progress. This approach allows us to make informed decisions and implement targeted initiatives, such as the IDE Collective Action Plan and the Global IDE Center of Excellence, fostering a more inclusive environment.

As of 1 October 2023, across KPMG firms, women make up 27.4 percent of leadership, including partners and directors. Globally, KPMG aims to achieve 33 percent female leadership positions by 2025. In Singapore, we are proud to have surpassed this target, with 34 percent of our partners being women as reported in the latest Our Impact Plan report. However, this does not reflect the gender parity in society and we will continue the efforts to amplify the voices of changemakers, cultivate an educated and empathetic workforce so as to advance equality and inclusion in Singapore.

2. Building inclusive AI

As artificial intelligence (AI) pervades our lives, ensuring diverse representation in its development becomes paramount. This necessitates the inclusion of women in AI development teams, cultivating diverse well-equipped perspectives.

Our report, ‘Future of work’, emphasises the importance of nurturing such teams by enabling them to experiment broadly, equipping them with the necessary tools, hiring varied experts and building secure data sources. This approach safeguards against bias and discrimination throughout the development and implementation of AI models, driving progress toward AI systems that reflect the values of equality and inclusivity.

3. Promoting digital equity

While digital transformation paves the way for innovation, it also brings concerns about cyber threats and online safety. Our 2023 KPMG CEO Outlook highlights this, with 79 percent of CEOs believing AI could become a tool for adversaries alongside its potential for detecting cyberattacks. Additionally, 14 percent of CEOs listed cybersecurity concerns as a potential risk to their business growth.

These statistics underscore the need for robust mitigation strategies that address these evolving threats while promoting inclusivity and diversity within the workforce. Additionally, investing in women-focused cybersecurity awareness and education programmes empowers them with the knowledge and skills to navigate the online world confidently and securely, enhancing their employability.

4. Empowering women in STEM

Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in STEM careers. Encouraging more women to pursue these fields is crucial for advancing diversity and innovation. Initiatives like mentorship and scholarship programmes specifically targeted at women can inspire and enable them to excel. At KPMG in Singapore, we encourage staff to come as they are and thrive with us. By breaking down barriers and promoting equal opportunities, we engineer a welcoming environment that invests in women, celebrates their contributions and fosters their unique perspectives. This leads to a more vibrant and inclusive industry and workplace. Find out more about how KPMG in Singapore provides opportunities for growth and development.

5. Bridging the access gap

Addressing the lack of accessible and affordable tech education is crucial. Online learning platforms facilitate convenient and flexible access to education. At KPMG, we champion initiatives like digital on-demand training, global learning summits, and campaigns promoting inclusivity. Our Singapore firm provides Learning & Development programmes to advance IDE and ensure a safe, inclusive work environment. Globally, we also partner with UNESCO, to scale up the Global Skills Academy which aims to provide free and demand-driven online training to enhance employability and prepare for the evolving job market.

Furthermore, our support for "IT's Her Future" and the 10by30 strategy equips women with tech skills while supporting job transitions and upskilling educators. By prioritising women’s participation in these initiatives, we nurture an environment where they can thrive professionally, contributing to their economic independence and overall well-being. Read more about our commitment to making a positive social and economic impact.

Creating a more equitable future

By harnessing the power of technology, we can craft a future where women not only shine in their respective fields, but also leverage their expertise to tackle social challenges and become agents of positive change. This International Women’s Day, let's #InvestinWomen with technology as the accelerator for progress to a more equitable and inclusive world.