By Nkechi Eze
Nigeria, like many other countries, faces a significant gender disparity in STEM education and careers. Women are underrepresented in STEM fields, this gap is attributed to various factors which includes Limited access to quality education, particularly in rural areas, societal and cultural norms that discourage girls from pursuing STEM careers and lack of role models and mentors to inspire and guide girls and women in STEM.
To address these challenges, the Federal Government launched a comprehensive program to promote STEM education and mentorship opportunities for girls and women who have been taking advantage of the many opportunities. On the premise of this, the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has praised the resilience of women and girls doing exploits in science and technology, assuring that the federal government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will continue to promote and provide mentorship and support, for Nigerian women.
A statement signed by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Jonathan Eze, Tuesday in Abuja, during the celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science states that; the minister emphasized the critical role women and girls play in driving innovation and progress in science and technology, adding that despite facing numerous barriers, women and girls in Nigeria are making significant strides in STEM fields, and that it is a collective responsibility to support and encourage them.
According to the Hon. Min., this year’s theme, “Inclusive Green Growth for Gender Equality”, resonates deeply with our Ministry’s commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls in Nigeria.
“As we commemorate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, I, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, join the global community in celebrating the achievements of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
“As we mark this important day, I want to emphasize the critical role that women and girls play in driving innovation and progress in science and technology.
“Despite facing numerous barriers, women and girls in Nigeria are making significant strides in STEM fields, and it is our collective responsibility to support and encourage them.
“As a Ministry, we are committed to creating an enabling environment that fosters the participation of women and girls in science and technology. We are working tirelessly to promote STEM education, provide mentorship opportunities, and support research and innovation initiatives that benefit women and girls.
“I call on all stakeholders, including governments, private sector organizations, civil society groups, and individuals, to join us in promoting the participation of women and girls in science and technology.
“Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society where women and girls have equal opportunities to pursue their dreams and make meaningful contributions to the scientific community.” She said.
