In a rapidly evolving tech landscape, gender diversity remains a critical challenge. While women constitute 36% of India’s tech workforce, their representation in executive roles remains disproportionately low.
However, the advent of GenAI (Generative AI) promises to revolutionize the industry. It also assures to create opportunities for women to break through traditional barriers.
Recently, Nasscom, in collaboration with BCG, unveiled its groundbreaking report titled “GenAI: The Diversity Game Changer We Can’t Ignore.”
The GenAI Vertical
GenAI is poised to dominate 33% of the global AI market by 2027, with an estimated market size of $320-380 billion. Despite this immense potential, women’s representation in GenAI leadership roles lags behind, both globally and in India.
The report emphasizes that GenAI can act as an equalizer. It bridges the gender gap and creates new opportunities for women in tech.
“Globally, senior women lead in GenAI adoption, yet India lags with a 64% gender disparity in AI leadership. To capture the USD 320 billion AI market, India’s tech sector needs diversity,” says Sreyssha George, Managing Director and Partner, Boston Consulting Group.
She adds, “This will ensure effective systems by eliminating biases and incorporating varying ethical perspectives. Let’s seize this significant opportunity to rectify the gender imbalance in the tech industry.”
Workforce: Women’s Ambition and Perceived Competence
The report reveals that women across all levels—junior, mid-management, and senior management—demonstrate high professional ambition.
95% of junior, 96% of mid-management, and 100% of senior management women are willing to invest extra time to succeed in GenAI-driven careers.
GenAI tools significantly boost women’s perceived competence. With 45% of women in tech roles reporting higher confidence compared to their non-tech peers.
Diverse teams are better equipped to detect ethical issues and make decisions that consider the well-being of all stakeholders. The report underscores the importance of diversity in reducing bias and ensuring ethical outcomes in AI development.
Commenting on the report, Sangeeta Gupta, Senior Vice President, and Chief Strategy Officer, Nasscom, said, “Despite significant progress in diversity and AI/Gen AI adoption, substantial gaps still limit women’s full potential in the tech industry.”
She added, “With Gen AI set to dominate the tech industry, it is critical to address key challenges such as knowledge gaps and lack of support, to empower women, particularly in these roles.”
Sangeeta said, “By addressing these obstacles and cultivating an inclusive environment, businesses can not only enhance their success but also contribute to a more equitable and dynamic tech landscape.”
“We believe that embracing these changes is both a moral imperative and a strategic advantage that will shape the future of the industry,” she added.
Also Watch: How Gen AI Transforms L&D with Predictive Analytics, Click Here
Recommendations for a More Inclusive Workforce
Mentorship Programs: Organizations should implement robust mentorship initiatives to guide women in GenAI careers.
Flexible Work Models: Advocate for flexible work arrangements that enhance learning and experimentation.
Clear Career Pathways: Demystify GenAI career paths and encourage participation.
Diverse Leadership Teams: Reassess leadership teams working on GenAI to ensure diverse voices and ethical perspectives.
Continuous Learning: Promote lifelong learning to empower women in a GenAI-driven future.
Conclusion
GenAI represents an unprecedented opportunity to rectify gender imbalances in tech.
By embracing diversity, fostering an inclusive environment, and investing in women’s success, businesses can enhance their growth. They can also contribute to a more equitable and dynamic industry.
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