"This recognition confirms that the IT world can be open and inclusive for everyone. We have created a system that supports people from their first interest in IT all the way to an academic career," said program director Birgy Lorenz. "Our work shows that when you create the right conditions and provide role models, diversity in technology is an achievable goal."

The program encompasses four main pillars: creating new opportunities and retraining, making role models visible, developing an inclusive mindset, and sparking interest in IT through mentorship. Program activities are implemented in collaboration with the IT Academy Program, Telia Estonia, ITL, Smartwork Academy, and other partners.

Notable Results

The program's impact is concrete and measurable:

• Over 700 participants in retraining programs, of which more than 500 have successfully transitioned to IT work or studies
• 59 women's success stories and over 20 participants in TechCast podcast recordings
• 7,000+ copies of the inclusive computer science game have reached 60% of Estonian schools
• 500 learners and teachers have tested the IT-huvi2rataja application; by the end of 2025, the user base will expand to 2,500+ people

"When we talk about a knowledge-based economy and digital future, it must be built on diverse human resources," emphasized Lorenz. "Currently, many talented young people in Estonia go unused each year because they don't see IT as a suitable choice for them – whether due to stereotypes, lack of role models, or the perception that this field is not meant for them."

Diversity as a Competitive Advantage

The program aims to make TalTech an exemplary center of diversity and inclusion in Northern Europe, where IT education and careers are open to everyone regardless of gender, age, location, previous experience, or special needs.

Research shows that diverse teams are more innovative and make better decisions. "We not only have a moral obligation to be inclusive, but it also makes economic sense," explained Lorenz. "Technology created by a homogeneous group cannot serve a diverse society."

Informatics Europe is an organization founded in 2006 that unites European universities and research institutions, focusing on the development of informatics and computer science education, research, and academic leadership. The organization has over 150 members across Europe.

You can read more about the IT Diversification program here