Int’l Day of Girls in ICT: APWEN launches ‘Who Wants to Be an Engineer’ to empower girls

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

As Nigeria marks the 2024 International Day of Girls in ICT, the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) has launched the “Who Wants to Be an Engineer” initiative program aimed to promote girls’ participation in engineering and combat stereotypes and biases.

The President, APWEN, Engr. Adebisi Osim while speaking in Abuja on Thursday at the unveiling of the `who wants to be an engineer’’ initiative program stated that by encouraging girls to become engineers, they can bring a broader range of perspectives, experiences, and ideas to the table, leading to more creative solutions to societal challenges.

Osim explained that engineering offers a platform for girls to make a tangible difference in the world, contributing to the development of sustainable infrastructure, renewable energy, technological advancements and more, adding that by becoming engineers, girls can become agents of change and create a positive impact on society.

She noted that the commemoration of the day is not just mere event but a call to action, a renewed commitment to breaking down barriers and creating an environment that nurtures the dreams of our aspiring engineers.

‘Together, let us dismantle the stereotypes that deter girls from venturing into STEM fields. Let us provide equal access to quality education and training programs, ensuring that no girl is left behind because of societal norms or economic constraints.”

She maintained that by pursuing a career in engineering, girls can enjoy long-term job security, competitive salaries, and the potential for career growth adding that their financial independence allows them to shape their futures, support themselves, and contribute to their families and communities.

“The presence of female engineers serves as an inspiration for future generations. When girls see women thriving in engineering careers, it encourages them to dream big and believe that they, too, can excel in this field.”

Also speaking, the President of Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Margaret Oguntala, said the occasion also signified a huge tribute to the legacy of the 16th President of APWEN, Funmilola Ojelade, who worked tirelessly to promote ICT and girls in engineering.

She commended APWEN for organizing the event to celebrate the life and legacy of Funmilola Ojelade and for reaffirming their commitment to carrying forward her vision of a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

She urged everyone to reflect on redecorating themselves to the cause of gender equality and empowerment.

The Guest Speaker, Ms Morenike Gomez, described the late Funmilola Ojelade as a woman of strength and vigor, who lived a purposeful and impactful life.

Gomez said she was a resourceful person that changed other people adding that, “we all should live our lives to make an impact, whether as a leader or as a follower.

“We all need to learn from Funmilola’s legacies and be intentional about living a purposeful life with a clear vision, be committed to your set goals and objectives, be available and give more than your expectations.”

To commemorate the event, a science competition was organized in the six geo-political zones among students in Senior Secondary Schools and the specified winners would be offered scholarships.

At the end of the competition, the North Central came first, North East came second and the South West came third.

Miss Faith Olugbayi, a representative of the North Central group from Government Secondary School Gwarinpa Estate, expressed gratitude to APWEN for the initiative.