CD Projekt Red’s Gender-Exclusive Developer Training Program Sparks Controversy
CD Projekt Red, the acclaimed developer behind the Witcher series and Cyberpunk 2077, has launched a new phase of its young developer training program. However, this program has sparked controversy due to its exclusive focus on female participants.
The Growing Popularity of Gaming Among Women
According to recent research, gaming is increasingly popular among women in Poland. Over 47% of Polish gamers are female, and millions of women play games daily on consoles or computers. Despite this, women remain underrepresented in the game development industry, with only 20% of professionals in this field being female.
Dziewczyny w grze (Girls in the Game)
CD Projekt Red’s Dziewczyny w grze (Girls in the Game) program aims to address this gender gap by providing young women with opportunities to learn about game development. The program is specifically targeted at high school girls, with a preference for candidates from smaller towns.
Program Details
The Dziewczyny w grze program will last for a year. Participants will receive mentorship from CD Projekt Red employees and a financial stipend of 12,000 zlotys (approximately 290,000 rubles) to cover expenses.
Addressing the Gender Gap
CD Projekt Red is proud of the progress it has made in fostering a community of young women interested in the gaming industry. Agnieszka Szamalek-Michalska, Director of Culture, Diversity and Inclusion at CD Projekt Red, has stated that the program has been successful in attracting and nurturing female talent.
Controversy Surrounding Gender Exclusivity
While the Dziewczyny w grze program has garnered support from many, it has also faced criticism due to its exclusive focus on female participants. Some argue that such programs can perpetuate gender stereotypes and limit opportunities for male developers.
Similar Programs and Their Impact
Other gaming companies, such as Ubisoft, have also launched similar training programs with a focus on female participants. These programs aim to address the gender imbalance in the industry and provide opportunities for women to develop their skills and careers.
The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion
The gaming industry benefits from diversity and inclusion. A diverse workforce brings a variety of perspectives and experiences to the development process, leading to more innovative and engaging games. By investing in programs like Dziewczyny w grze, gaming companies can help to create a more equitable and inclusive industry.
CD Projekt Red’s Dziewczyny w grze program is a valuable initiative aimed at addressing the gender gap in the gaming industry. While the program’s exclusive focus on female participants has sparked controversy, it is a positive step towards creating a more inclusive and diverse gaming community.
