PyGirls

PyGirls, launched by the European coding school Datorium (in collaboration with Tietoevry), is a dedicated online Python programming course designed specifically for girls aged 14–19. Over the span of two to four months, depending on the edition, participants learn Python basics and develop their first apps, while also enhancing logical thinking and teamwork skills in a supportive, girls-only environment. The courses are led by female tutors to foster a comfortable learning atmosphere, and are offered at a low cost—just €9 per month, with scholarships available for girls from social-risk backgrounds. Recent batches (e.g., winter 2025) have welcomed over 200 participants from Latvia and Lithuania, and the program is backed by organizations such as Riga City Council and supported through grants like those from EU Code Week.​

What PyGirls is

PyGirls is an online coding initiative run by the European coding school Datorium in collaboration with IT company Tietoevry. It is designed to introduce teenage girls and young women to Python and basic digital skills in a supportive, female‑focused learning space.​

Course structure and content

The course lasts about four months and focuses on teaching Python, one of the most widely used programming languages, with the goal that participants create their first simple applications. In addition to coding syntax, the program emphasizes logical thinking, teamwork, and working with modern digital collaboration tools for remote project work.​

Who it targets and why

The initiative is aimed at girls aged roughly 14–20 (with the main emphasis 14–19) and responds to the under‑representation of women in ICT, where only about 20% of employees in Europe are women. The organizers and tutor explicitly want to break stereotypes that coding is “only for men” or inherently difficult and highlight coding as a useful skill for any future career or business.​

Practical details and costs

Lessons take place online once a week on Saturdays for 1.5 hours (11:00–12:30 GMT+2), in English, and participants need only a computer and a stable internet connection. The fee is advertised as 9 euros per month (36 euros total for four months), with full scholarships available for Latvian girls from social risk groups such as low‑income families, orphans, large families, and those from smaller towns or regions.​

Community and support

Participants join Datorium’s Discord community, which includes over 7,500 young people interested in coding, offering discussions, events, and potential internship or job leads. The course is taught by a female tutor with several years of experience running PyGirls, which is meant to make it easier for participants to ask questions and feel comfortable as they learn.