PalmPay is ramping up efforts to close Nigeria’s gender gap in technology with its flagship Purple Woman Program, which has now trained over 250 women for careers in the country’s fast-growing digital economy.
The initiative comes at a time when women account for just 17% of Nigeria’s tech workforce, highlighting the urgent need for inclusive talent development across the sector.
Bridging the gender gap in tech
Designed to tackle both technical and societal barriers, the Purple Woman Program equips participants with in-demand digital skills while addressing perceptions that often discourage women from entering the tech industry.
In its 2025 cohort, 100 women were selected through a competitive process to participate in an intensive three-day masterclass focused on opportunities within fintech and the broader digital ecosystem.
From training to real-world experience
Top-performing participants progressed into a six-month internship programme within PalmPay, gaining hands-on experience across multiple departments.
Unlike traditional coding bootcamps, the programme offers a multidisciplinary curriculum, covering:
- Software engineering
- Data analysis
- UI/UX design
- Product management
- Digital marketing
- Human resources
It also includes modules on financial literacy and workplace readiness, helping participants build long-term career resilience.
Measurable impact after three years
Now in its third year, the Purple Woman Program has made significant strides:
- 250+ women trained
- 20 internships facilitated
- Increased pathways into full-time roles within the tech ecosystem
Participants are also exposed to PalmPay’s collaborative work culture, including its “no door” policy, which encourages direct engagement with senior leadership and fosters inclusivity.
Driving inclusive growth in Nigeria’s digital economy
As Nigeria strengthens its position as a leading tech hub in Africa, initiatives like the Purple Woman Program are playing a critical role in diversifying the talent pipeline.
By combining technical training, leadership development, and workplace integration, PalmPay is helping to build a more inclusive workforce that reflects the diverse user base powering the country’s fintech revolution.
Industry observers say such programmes could prove vital in ensuring sustainable growth and innovation across Nigeria’s digital economy.
