Challenges facing ICT empowerment of girls in Bongo District the role of the school counsellor in Junior High Schools

Abstract

This study explored challenges facing ICT empowerment of girls in Junior High Schools in the Bongo District, focusing on the role school counsellors play in supporting girls‘ engagement with ICT. The study employed a qualitative approach and used face-to-face interviews to gather data. Guided by an interpretivism paradigm, a phenomenological design was adopted to capture the essence of how girls in Junior High Schools in the Bongo District experience ICT access and usage for empowerment. The research population consisted of 116 participants, including 4 school counsellors, 108 form three female students, and 4 ICT teachers. From this population, 28 participants were purposively selected based on their direct involvement in ICT and girls‘ empowerment activities. However, following the principle of data saturation, where no new information or themes emerged during analysis, the final sample size was 18 participants. These included 4 school counsellors, 10 female students, and 4 ICT teachers, which was sufficient to provide comprehensive insights into the study‘s objectives. A semi-structured interview guide facilitated data collection, while inductive thematic analysis was used to identify recurring patterns and themes. Findings revealed critical challenges such as limited access to ICT resources, inadequate infrastructure, and sociocultural barriers that limit girls‘ participation in ICT activities. The study also highlighted the need for continuous psychosocial and academic support to sustain girls‘ interest in ICT. Based on the findings, it is recommended that the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with local government and NGOs, take immediate steps to equip all Junior High Schools in the Bongo District with essential ICT resources. Additionally, awareness campaigns should be conducted to educate parents and communities on the importance of ICT for girls' empowerment. School counsellors should also receive additional training and resources to strengthen their role in promoting ICT access and usage among female students.