23 April 2026

For the eighth consecutive year, the United Nations International Computing Centre (UNICC) has joined forces with partners worldwide to celebrate International Girls in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Day. In 2026, UNICC organized and participated in events across its duty stations—New York, Geneva, Valencia, and Brindisi—reaching over 150 young women, from middle school to university level.

Under the 2026 theme, “AI for Development: Girls Shaping the Digital Future,” these events engaged young women and girls in hands-on activities, mentorship, and dialogue with women professionals, emphasizing that girls must be more than users of technology—they must be its creators, leaders, and ethical guardians.

From Discussion to Action: AI for Good Workshop for SDG4

22 April 2026 | 3 UN Plaza, New York

On 22 April 2026, UNICC, together with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and New York University School of Professional Studies (NYU-SPS), hosted an in-person event for 55 participants, including university students, middle school girls, and women professionals from the UN system, academia, and the private sector. Tima Soni, Chief of Cybersecurity, delivered the opening remarks, highlighting that with AI everywhere nowadays, it is critical to ensure a governed, safe space where girls and women can explore technology without fear.

Following an interactive icebreaker, participants engaged in an “AI for Good” workshop focused on quality education (SDG 4), facilitated by Dr. Celina Nateram, Clinical Assistant Professor at NYU-SPS. Working in six interdisciplinary teams, they tackled real-world scenarios—personalized learning, study efficiency, and inclusive access for students with different needs or limited connectivity. Each group proposed an AI-driven solution, assessed its potential impact, and considered associated risks, including bias and responsible use.

AI Literacy and Leadership: Hands-On Learning with Tech Mentors

23 April 2026 | ITU Headquarters, Geneva

On 23 April 2026, UNICC joined the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the UK Mission to the WTO, UN, and other international organizations in Geneva for a morning celebration at ITU Headquarters. Young girls participated in a dynamic programme that included a fireside chat with leaders from ITU, the UK Mission, Microsoft, and UNICC Director Sameer Chauhan, followed by interactive AI workshops.

“My first recommendation to each one of you: think of yourself as a leader. No matter what your passion is, say: I can envision myself as a leader five or ten years from now in my space.”

— Sameer Chauhan, Director, UNICC

Bridging Bias and Building Equity: Tech4Equality Hackathon

23 April 2026| Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV), Valencia

In Valencia, UNICC took part in a “Tech4Equality Hackathon” organized by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) at the Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV). The event unfolded in two phases: a preliminary session on 16 April and a full‑day hackathon on 23 April, involving engineering students from UPV.

Paloma Bahilo, Business Relationship Manager at UNICC, presented the “UN Challenge: EqualAI Lens and Women in STEM Voices,” where students developed prototypes to measure and mitigate gender bias in AI systems, combined with a storytelling component on women’s lived experiences in STEM. UNICC team members also served as mentors and judges throughout the hackathon. The day included team presentations, a networking lunch, deliberation, and an awards ceremony, with participation from IOM and UNGSC.

Voices of Experience: Leadership Lessons from Women in Tech

23 April 2026 | UNGSC Base, Brindisi

At the UNGSC base in Brindisi on 23 April, UNICC contributed to the “Inspire” talk series with a hybrid session connecting personnel in Brindisi and Valencia. Milena Grecuccio, UNICC Deputy Director, was interviewed about her professional journey, with a focus on gender balance and encouraging women’s participation in the technology sector. Drawing on her personal experience, she inspired colleagues and highlighted the importance of visible role models in driving lasting change.

“Where should women be in the shaping of AI or technology? Everywhere. Women are 50% of the population, so the representation has to be proportionate. The groups that shape industries are often not diverse enough.”

— Milena Grecuccio, Deputy Director, UNICC

A Growing Global Commitment

Since 2018, UNICC has been a proud partner of ITU’s global initiative, launched in 2011. With over 400,000 girls reached in more than 11,000 celebrations across 175 countries to date, this year’s 15th anniversary marked a milestone. By expanding from one office to four global locations, UNICC reaffirms its commitment to closing the digital gender gap—not only in the classroom or at hackathons, but also in the workplace and across the technology sector.

As AI reshapes every aspect of our world, UNICC remains dedicated to ensuring that girls and young women have the skills, confidence, and networks to shape that future.