Empowering Women in ICT: A Case Study of Female Faculty and Students in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in Jolo, Sulu, Philippines
Authors: - Sali S. Mannan , - Nureeza J. Latorre , - Datu Al-Mujiv A.  Kiram , - John Mark R. Julaspi , - Sharina P. Baddiri , - Marhana J. Jul-ambri , - Adzmar A. Ahamad 
Published: January 2025

The case study on Empowering Women in ICT: A Case Study of Female Faculty and Students in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in Jolo, Sulu, Philippines, delves into the complex realities of women involved in ICT through their faculty and academic outcomes in an educational context traversing territories of cultural conservatism, economic vulnerability, and insecurity. Giving emphasis to ICT as an influential driver of socio-economic development, this study aimed to uncover the barriers or enablers that affect women's participation in the ICT programs of SUCs in Jolo.
Adopting a qualitative case study design, this research closely examines the experiences of female faculty and students in ICT programs. The participants were purposely sampled to include individuals with meaningful academic or professional experiences. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and document reviews of institutional policies and records. The multi-method approach allowed for an in-depth investigation of the personal, institutional, and societal barriers and enablers for women working in ICT. The data was examined using a thematic analysis approach, enabling the identification of significant themes and recurring patterns reflective of the experiences of participants.
The results show that such entrenched cultural norms remain a powerful influence on social expectations of women in Jolo. Conventional gender norms typically dissuade women from obtaining a higher education and pursuing careers in technology, thereby upholding the idea that they belong in the home. At SUCs, institutional challenges continue to limit women’s participation. Without adequate ICT infrastructure, limited access to relevant learning resources, and the lack of gender-aware/responsive policies, women are not fully able to thrive academically and professionally in ICT.
The UN must advocate for institutional change on a global level with the greatest need in the region, as ongoing security issues restrict women’s movement, the tangible mobility needed to engage beyond the classroom as university activities, including workshops and resources, are often limited to their locations. Economic difficulties also play a role in this dilemma where access to a personal computer, reliable internet, and other ICT tools are all limited by economic status for many women. They form interlinked barriers that create complex sets of challenges, limiting female participation and success in ICT programs.
But even amidst these challenges, the report also found glimmers of progress. Some of them have said that their families and communities had started to accept their education in ICT, reflecting a gradual cultural change. This narrative of increasing support presents a pivotal moment for educational institutions and policymakers to capitalize on these positive developments and develop initiatives that facilitate greater empowerment of women in the ICT sector.
In light of these findings, the study provides a number of key recommendations to help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in ICT:
1. Enforce Gender-sensitive Policies: At an institutional level, ESL institutions should also adopt policies that are deliberately inclusive of women's participation in ICT through mentorship programs, leadership opportunities, and targeted scholarships.
2. Build on ICT Infrastructure Strength: Providing access to modern equipment, as well as stable internet connectivity to level the entry point, and creating an accessible learning environment for all.
3. Mobilize Communities to Advocate for Women in Technology: SUCs should work with local government units and community leaders to empower women in technology fields and challenge oppressive gender norms.
4. Address Security Concerns: Institutions can cooperate with local authorities to improve campus security and provide opportunities for on-campus or virtual ICT learning, to help overcome mobility barriers.
5. Provide Financial Help and Resources: Scholarships, grants, and subsidized access to ICT tools can lighten the financial load for female students and faculty.
6. Champion Industry Partnerships: Internships and mentoring connections in ICT industries can help to provide women with practical experience and expand their networks.
7. Assess and Adjust Inclusion Efforts: Institutions need to regularly evaluate the effectiveness of gender-inclusivity strategies and modify policies to ensure ongoing effectiveness.
In summary, enabling women in ICT from SUCs in Jolo entails a multidimensional and contextual approach that seeks to help them navigate the intertwining cultural, institutional, security, and economic hindrances surrounding their aspirations. These strategic recommendations aim to translate into actions that educational institutions and decision-makers can take, thus generating further opportunities for women to succeed in ICT and ultimately contribute to the social and economic development of the region. These efforts, driven by some incredible women, suggest how local efforts can go a long way in bridging the gender gap in tech and ensuring a brighter, more inclusive future for women in Jolo and beyond.