The effect of information and communication technologies on gender equality at a selected university in South Africa

Abstract

In today’s technological environment, it is essential to make technological advancements. This requires both men and women to have equal information, communication, and technology opportunities. Various efforts have been made to address the issue of gender equality in the workplace. It can be noted that even though equal opportunities between men and women may exist, discrimination against women is still immanent in the workplace, for example, gender bias, inequalities, and underrepresentation. Thus, the object of research is the role of information and communication technologies (ICTs) on gender equality in the workplace in today’s digital age. An empirical investigation was carried out at a selected higher education institution in South Africa. Purposive sampling was used, and 19 participants were interviewed. Mixed methods were used for this study, with the qualitative findings used in the preliminary discussions. The collected data were transcribed, coded, and analyzed using Microsoft Excel and NVIVO. The study’s findings show that ICTs play an important role in promoting gender equality. ICTs enable women to be empowered, educated, independent, and autonomous, enabling them to acquire top positions as men in the workplace. This study adds to the body of knowledge on how ICTs have been proven to be a valuable tool in promoting gender equality by giving a voice to the voiceless and empowering women. This study also informs stakeholders about how women bring diversity to the workplace and why it is essential to give them equal opportunities with men.