Kochi marked International Women’s Day with a panel discussion spotlighting women’s contributions and career advancement in the technology sector, underlining broader conversations about gender inclusion in the city’s expanding information technology ecosystem. The event brought together industry leaders, policymakers and mid-career professionals to reflect on challenges and opportunities for women in tech.
Organised by the IT division of All India Professionals Congress through its ‘Together for Tech Lives’ initiative, the session was inaugurated by a state legislator representing Thrikkakara constituency. It served as a platform for dialogue on workplace culture, skill development and pathways for sustained participation by women in high-growth sectors.A senior representative of the organising body chaired the discussion, while the state president of the parent organisation delivered the keynote address. Panel members included directors and founders from established technology firms and female-led startups, sharing insights on inclusive hiring practices, mentorship and the value of empathy and patience as critical attributes in professional environments.
Speakers highlighted that some firms in the region’s IT landscape already boast significant female representation, with one mid-sized company reporting over half its workforce as women. Industry experts noted that such representation can enhance innovation and organisational resilience, particularly as cities seek to position themselves as competitive tech hubs.A notable moment during the programme was the honouring of a local resident who completed her university degree at the age of 71, exemplifying lifelong learning and challenging ageist narratives in professional development. This recognition also underlined discussions about widening access to education and career pathways beyond conventional timelines.
Participants and organisers also used the forum to announce new coordinator appointments for the ‘Together for Tech Lives’ movement, signalling a structured effort to expand the initiative’s reach. Experts attending the event said that such institutional backing can strengthen networking opportunities and career support systems for underrepresented groups in technology.Urban analysts see the panel as part of a larger shift in Kerala’s economic discourse, where technology-driven growth increasingly intersects with social inclusion goals. With upcoming tech investments and innovation hubs planned across the state, stakeholders emphasised that creating supportive environments for women and other marginalised cohorts is essential for equitable urban prosperity.By linking career narratives with broader debates on workplace culture and leadership development, the Kochi event underscored how civic engagement can shape sectoral practices. As International Women’s Day prompts reflection globally on gender parity, local initiatives such as this contribute to ongoing efforts to make the tech workforce more diverse, resilient and future-ready.
Kochi Celebrates Women in Tech Panel Discussion
