Prestige Consulting recently supported a GIZ's extensive research initiative “Gender Responsiveness of ICT Policies in Cambodia”, examining women’s participation and leadership in Cambodia’s information and communications technology sector. The research explored the barriers, experiences and opportunities affecting women and girls across education, employment and leadership pathways. It looked beyond participation numbers to understand why women remain underrepresented in certain technology roles and what institutions can do to create more inclusive opportunities.

A Research-Led Approach

Prestige’s work involved reviewing relevant policies, programs and existing evidence, alongside gathering perspectives from stakeholders connected to Cambodia’s ICT ecosystem.

The research examined several interconnected issues, including:

• Social perceptions of technology as a male-dominated field.
• Access to ICT education and early exposure to digital skills.
• Family and community influences on education and career choices.
• Women’s experiences entering and progressing within the ICT workforce.
• Institutional support, professional development and leadership opportunities.
• The importance of visible female role models and professional networks.

By combining research evidence with stakeholder perspectives, we helped identify both structural challenges and practical opportunities for strengthening women’s participation.

From Evidence to Action

The research reinforced that increasing women’s involvement in ICT requires more than encouraging girls to study technology. It requires coordinated support throughout the full pathway, from education and career entry to professional advancement and leadership. Schools, universities, employers, public institutions and development partners all have a role to play. Potential areas for action include expanding early access to digital skills, improving career guidance, supporting mentorship and professional networks, strengthening inclusive workplace practices and giving greater visibility to women already contributing to the sector.

The findings also highlighted the importance of addressing social expectations. Young women are more likely to pursue technology careers when they can see clear opportunities, receive support from their families and institutions and identify successful women whose experiences they can relate to.

Watch the video and hear directly from the women and stakeholders helping shape a more inclusive digital future for Cambodia:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1JMCMBbxxz/?mibextid=wwXIfr 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/giz-cambodia_overview-on-gender-responsiveness-in-ict-activity-7482683761323806720-fC1u 

Work with Prestige

Prestige aims to help clients move beyond general observations and develop interventions grounded in evidence, stakeholder realities and practical opportunities for change.