By Isaac Olufemi Ojo
A Professor of Computer Science at the University of Ibadan, Oluseyi Osunade, has urged young women to unlock their potential by taking advantage of opportunities in science and technology.
Osunade advised while delivering a keynote address at the launch of the Girls in Science and Technology Initiative, held at Dominican University in Ibadan on Friday.
He said that while many programmes existed to support women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), there was often a disconnect between available opportunities and the needs of girls.
According to him, the initiative will bridge the gap by engaging girls directly and ensuring that interventions and policies are driven by their aspirations and challenges.
“Girls make a difference in society and the family. When we channel their creativity and ability to multitask into science and technology, the outcomes can be remarkable.
“This initiative will connect with girls at the grassroots and help drive them towards becoming productive contributors to society,” he said.
Earlier, Dr Kehinde Deji-Akinpelu, the Convener, Girls in Science and Technology Initiative, said the initiative was designed to raise godly, competent and globally competitive young women in science and technology.
Deji-Akinpelu, who is an engineer, said the initiative would focus on mentorship, capacity building, character formation and leadership development.
She added that the initiative was also aimed at producing graduates capable of creating jobs and developing innovative solutions rather than relying solely on paid employment.
“We want young women here at Dominican University who can translate their projects and ideas into patents, start-ups and sustainable enterprises.
“Our core values are godliness and character, excellence and discipline, competence and leadership,” she said.
In her remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of Dominican University, Prof. Jacinta Opara, described the initiative as a transformative platform that would help young women discover their capabilities and build confidence.
Opara, a scientist and life member of Women in Science, encouraged the students to remain curious, embrace challenges and believe in their ability to excel in any field.
“The world needs more women contributing ideas, developing solutions and leading innovations that will shape the future.
“Never allow anyone to define your limits. Be curious, ask questions and continue learning,” she said.
Also, Mrs Roheemat Adabanija, the Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Digital Innovation and ICT, Oyo State, said that despite years of advocacy, female participation in STEM had remained low globally.
Adabanija noted that girls still constituted about 25 per cent of the STEM population and called for sustained mentorship, encouragement and incentives to attract more girls to the sector.
She said celebrating the achievements of young women and supporting those facing challenges would inspire more girls to pursue careers in science and technology.
Similarly, Mrs Samotu Adejoke, the Oyo State Coordinator of the Nigeria Women in Information Technology, urged girls to set clear goals and develop confidence in pursuing their aspirations.
She advised them to seek mentors, remain focused on education and build resilience in overcoming challenges.
Dr Bolanle Oyekunle, the Head of Department, Computer Science, Lead City University, encouraged the students to remain focused on their career goals and avoid distractions that could derail their ambitions.
Oyekunle stressed the importance of planning, determination and maintaining positive relationships that support personal and professional growth.
In her contributions, Mrs Yemisi Abidoye, the Chairman of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, urged the participants to pursue continuous learning and skills development.
Abidoye said that women could excel in STEM irrespective of their background, provided they remained resilient, focused and committed to self-improvement.
She also encouraged the students to identify their strengths, address their weaknesses and seek mentorship from accomplished professionals.
