Reeder Technology, Istanbul, Türkiye: Girls DO Code

Written answers to the questions

Total 200 words used.

Reeder Technology found in 2010 and IPO in 2023 is a leading domestic smartphone manufacturer and technology brand in Türkiye, dedicated to fostering gender equality within its operations and supply chains. Committed to the principles of the United Nations Global Compact and the UN Women’s Empowerment Principles, Reeder actively collaborates with its stakeholders to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment initiatives. With this vision  female employees reached more than 60% among its workforce of 1,500 employees.

Reeder Technology embarked on a mission to break down barriers for women in the technology sector. In 2022, Reeder launched the "Girls DO Code" initiative in partnership with the  Republic of Türkiye Ministry of National Education (MoNE) Vocational & Technical Anatolian High Schools. Reeder integrated STEAM principles into the "Girls DO Code" initiative (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), especially for girls, in nurturing creativity and critical thinking skills. This groundbreaking program aimed to empower girls by equipping them with essential digital skills and fostering a brighter future for women in technology. "Girls DO Code" initiative is meticulously designed to equip female students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills crucial for active participation in the economy and the improvement of socio-economic conditions.

Total 248 words used.

“Reelab.com.tr” was established for the students studying in rural MoNE Vocational & Technical Anatolian High Schools.

Students were introduced to “Maker Culture, Design Thinking, 3D Design, Algorithms, Game Design, Coding, Mobile Programming” lasted approximately 6 hours and seven modules, in line with the MoNE curriculum.

In 2022-2023, while the aim was to reach 2.500 students through Reelab.com.tr, program achieved its goal by reaching 2.680 students from 30 Vocational & Technical Anatolian High Schools in 3 rural cities.

In 2022 - 2023, it achieved its goal of providing practical education opportunities to 278 students instead of 250 who were successful in online education and exams.

In 2023-2024, while the aim was to reach 4000 students via online trainings, 4194 students were reached from 55 Vocational & Technical Anatolian High Schools in 7 rural cities.

In 2023-2024, it achieved its goal of providing practical education opportunities to 630 students instead of 500 who were successful in online education and exams.

Hands-on workshops were held for 2 days in each province and approximately 50 students each day attended workshops. MoNe Certificates were delivered to the students participated in the STEAM-based hands-on workshops.

Students completed their STEAM education may have internship opportunities in Reeder factories.

Students will participate in the “Reeder Software Development, Design Competition”.

The Project contributes directly to the UN SDGs 4:”Quality Education”, 5:”Gender Equality”, and indirectly to 8:”Decent Work and Economic Growth”, 10:”Reducing Inequalities”, 17:”Partnerships for the Goals”.

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• Reeder is committed to the UN Global Compact and UN Women’s Empowerment Principles, ensuring its practices align with global standards for gender equality.
• Aligning with the UN’s principles shows a proactive stance in corporate social responsibility, which can influence other companies to adopt similar practices.
• Over 60% of Reeder’s workforce comprises women, a significant achievement in an industry often dominated by men.
• Collaboration with the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of National Education highlights Reeder’s commitment to integrating educational and industry efforts.
• By providing both theoretical and practical knowledge, the program empowers female students to actively participate in the economy, potentially improving socio-economic conditions.
• Many technology companies, both globally and locally in Türkiye, often struggle to achieve gender balance. Reeder’s 60% female workforce sets a benchmark for others in the industry. Many leading technology firms are also striving to improve gender balance but often face challenges in achieving the level of representation seen at Reeder.
• By integrating STEAM principles, Reeder ensures that the "Girls DO Code" initiative is holistic, fostering creativity and critical thinking.
• Empowering girls with digital skills not only benefits the individuals but also has a broader socio-economic impact, potentially leading to a more inclusive and diverse workforce in the future.
• Initiatives similar to "Girls DO Code" exist worldwide, but Reeder’s integration with national educational systems and focus on socio-economic improvement sets it apart.