Focusing on women empowermen, the webinar was part of the varsity's "Forward NUMed" series.
WHILE the digital revolution presents many opportunities, it also perpetuates existing patterns of gender inequality.
Growing inequalities, said Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia chief executive officer Mak Joon Nien, are becoming increasingly evident in the context of digital skills and access to technologies, with women being left behind as the result of this digital gender divide.
“Therefore, the need for inclusive and transformative technology and digital education is crucial for a sustainable future.
“No one should be left behind and no voice should be left unheard,” Mak, who was a panellist at the Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia (NUMed) “Driving Mindset Change for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion and How to Embrace It” discussion, said in a press release.
Held on March 18, the online session also featured Academy of Sciences Malaysia fellow Emerita Prof Datuk Dr Asma Ismail.
A gender-responsive approach to innovation, technology and digital education can increase the awareness of inclusivity in our society, said Asma, who is also the Ibnu Sina Professorial Chair in Medicine at the International Islamic University Malaysia.
“Inclusion is about creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. “So, an inclusive environment can only be created once society becomes more aware and overcomes our unconscious gender biases,” she said.
Earlier, a webinar entitled “Lifting Women’s Voices: Embracing Gender Equity” was held to mark International Women’s Day.
Organising chairperson and NUMed chief operating officer Premila Nair said the webinar was aimed at uniting women and other marginalised groups to produce innovative solutions that serve women’s needs and advance gender equality.
Microsoft Malaysia legal, corporate and government affairs director Dr Jasmine Begum, who delivered the keynote speech, said education is an equaliser that must be equitable and accessible to all, regardless of gender.
“This is an instrumental first step in understanding what gender equality and equity entail,” she said.
Speaking on gender equality in the workplace, LeadWomen chairperson Anne Abraham said the goal is to achieve equal opportunities and outcomes for men and women.
“Workplace gender equality will be achieved when people, regardless of gender, can access and enjoy equal rewards, resources and opportunities,” she said.
