UK Launches Taskforce to Empower Women in Tech, Addressing Alarming 78% Gender Gap

The UK government has launched a groundbreaking taskforce aimed at breaking down barriers and increasing diversity in the tech sector, a move that comes as a response to the alarming 78% gender gap in the industry. Led by technology secretary Liz Kendall, the Women in Tech group brings together prominent female leaders from tech companies and organizations to advise the government on boosting economic growth and representation in the industry.

According to a recent report by BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, women accounted for only 22% of those working in IT specialist roles in the UK, a stark reminder of the need for action. The taskforce, which includes some of the most prominent women in UK tech, such as Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon, BT Group boss Allison Kirkby, and Dr Hayaatun Sillem, will work to "enter, stay and lead" in the UK tech sector, as stated by technology secretary Liz Kendall.

The Women in Tech group will provide the government with expert advice on how to boost diversity and economic growth in the industry. This initiative is a significant step towards addressing the gender gap in the tech sector, which has been a long-standing concern. According to a recent report, women make up only 22% of IT specialist roles in the UK, a figure that has remained largely unchanged in recent years.

The taskforce is a response to the growing recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. A report by the BCS found that the tech sector is missing out on a significant talent pool by failing to attract and retain more women. The Women in Tech group will work to address this issue by providing the government with practical advice on how to increase diversity and inclusion in the industry.

Technology secretary Liz Kendall said, "The Women in Tech group will break down the barriers that still exist in the tech sector and help women enter, stay and lead in the industry." She added, "We want to see more women in tech, and we want to see them succeed. This taskforce will provide us with the expertise and advice we need to make that happen."

The Women in Tech group is a significant step towards addressing the gender gap in the tech sector, and its success will be closely watched by industry experts and policymakers. As the taskforce gets to work, it is clear that there is a long way to go before the industry achieves true parity. However, with the expertise and commitment of the Women in Tech group, there is hope that the UK can become a leader in diversity and inclusion in the tech sector.

The taskforce is expected to provide regular updates on its progress, and its recommendations will be used to inform government policy on diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. As the UK continues to navigate the challenges of the tech sector, the Women in Tech group will play a crucial role in shaping the industry's future and ensuring that it is more inclusive and diverse.