Technology for Social Change and Development Initiative, Tech4Dev, has been named a WSIS Prizes 2026 Champion by the International Telecommunication Union, ITU, for its flagship Women Techsters programme. The initiative, currently operating in 30 African countries, was recognised in the ICT Applications, E Employment category for equipping women and girls with digital skills and creating pathways to jobs, entrepreneurship and leadership in the digital economy.
The recognition makes Tech4Dev the only Nigerian private organisation honoured at the WSIS Prizes 2026, where 72 champions were recognised across 18 categories. The organisation said the award reflects its impact in expanding digital inclusion and economic opportunities through partnerships with governments, development institutions and the private sector.
Tech4Dev Co founder and Executive Director, Oladiwura Oladepo, described the award as a validation of the organisation’s belief that digital skills can transform lives by creating economic opportunities, particularly for women. She said the Women Techsters programme was established to ensure more women can participate meaningfully in the digital economy regardless of their background.
The award comes as Tech4Dev approaches its tenth anniversary, having empowered more than 300,000 people across Africa through digital skills training, workforce development, research and policy engagement. The organisation said it remains committed to expanding opportunities for women, young people and underserved communities to thrive in the digital economy.