In a compelling talk titled “Recalibrating for Gender Balance on the Tech Landscape,” Anjali Gupta, Head of Marketing at Sify Technologies, and Kamal Nath, CEO at Sify Technologies, shed light on the urgent need for gender diversity in technology roles. The talk, part of Rising 2023 by AIM (India’s Biggest Women in Tech Summit), delves into the systemic barriers that have historically kept women from entering and advancing in tech fields like software engineering and data science.
The Imperative for Gender Balance
Anjali Gupta passionately argues that the tech landscape is incomplete without the active participation of women. She emphasizes that organizations must take proactive steps to break down the barriers that prevent women from entering these fields. This includes targeted recruitment, mentoring programs, and most importantly, advocating for policies that support work-life balance, such as flexible scheduling and parental leave.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence
Kamal Nath brings an interesting perspective to the table by discussing the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in this context. He argues that as AI becomes synonymous with digital transformation, it’s crucial to have diverse teams building these technologies. Without diversity, AI tools and products will not be a true reflection of the real world, leading to skewed and potentially harmful outcomes.
The Organizational Strategy
Both speakers agree that achieving gender balance is not just a matter of policy but must be designed into the very fabric of an organization. This involves a multi-pronged approach that includes strategic planning, supportive policies, and a robust support system. Kamal Nath emphasizes that unless these elements are consciously designed and implemented, achieving gender balance will remain an elusive goal.
The Power of Mentorship
One of the key takeaways from the talk is the importance of mentorship. Kamal Nath points out that organizations should consciously have a panel of mentors to guide women employees. This mentorship can play a pivotal role in helping women navigate the complexities of the tech industry and rise through the ranks.
Conclusion
The talk by Anjali Gupta and Kamal Nath serves as a powerful reminder of the work that still needs to be done to achieve gender balance in the tech landscape. It’s not just about filling quotas or being politically correct; it’s about creating a more equitable, diverse, and therefore, effective technological future. As the speakers eloquently put it, the time for recalibrating for gender balance is now, and it requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders involved.
