WE have launched a month-long campaign to encourage more women into IT.

With fewer than one in five IT workers in the UK being female, the University of Brighton is trying to address the imbalance.

We are headline sponsor of a programme of events throughout the month, highlighting opportunities and inspiring women to get involved.

Spring Forward celebrates the role of women in digital culture and runs parallel with Women’s History Month.

According to the latest Diversity Report from the Chartered Institute for IT, fewer than one in five IT workers in the UK are female – a significantly lower ratio than most other UK work sectors.

No Longer the ManMADE Object is at the University’s Grand Parade building, Brighton, from 4,30pm to 6.30pm on March 28.

This event will showcase the way in which our innovative and impactful research shapes the teaching and learning opportunities here at the University of Brighton.

Importantly, as part of the wider Spring Forward Festival, this evening foregrounds and celebrates women’s leadership, creativity and contribution to a set of disciplines that frequently struggle to attract and retain female applicants and employees.

The event will also provide space for the consideration of avenues of support available to those who do chose to enter these fields.

Other events planned include workshops, panel discussions and talks. Most are free but visitors are asked to book.

Helen Kennedy is Head of School of Media at the university