The Network of Nigerian Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (NWiSTEM), in collaboration with the Nigerian Women in Agriculture Research for Development (NiWARD), held a groundbreaking workshop in celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on Tuesday, February 11, 2025.
The event took place at the Dr. K.J. Nwufor Hall at the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Moor Plantation, Ibadan, with the theme "Women and Girls in Science: A New Era for Sustainability."
The workshop served as a vital initiative aimed at empowering young women and girls in STEM fields, addressing the critical need for increased female representation and involvement in scientific disciplines. Notable attendees included Dr. Adekoya Olatunde Owosibo, the esteemed Provost of the college, who was represented by the Deputy Provost, Dr. Isaac Olusegun Ayodeji. Distinguished speakers included leading experts such as Prof. Oluwatoyin O. Akinola, Dr. Ayojesutomi Abiodun-Solanke, Dr. Oluwafikemi Iji, and Dr. Omolara Jemimah Ojeizele, alongside Prof. Juliana Amaka Ugwu, NWiSTEM Coordinator for Oyo State, Dr. Olaitan Olajuyigbe, NiWARD South West Coordinator, as well as researchers, students, and educators from various institutions.
In a heartfelt welcome address, Dr. Isaac Ayodeji emphasized the significance of recognizing both women and girls in the journey toward equality in STEM. "This day should remind us of the contributions made by women in the scientific community, despite numerous barriers and biases. The role of women in science has often been undervalued," he stated. He also celebrated the achievements of female scientists in Nigeria, honoring figures like the renowned pharmacist Dora Nkem Akunyili.
The workshop aimed to address the challenges faced by women and girls in pursuing scientific careers, calling for a collective commitment to creating an inclusive environment where every girl can pursue her passions in STEM.
The first guest speaker, Prof. Oluwatoyin O. Akinola, a research professor specializing in environmental geology and hydrogeology, delivered a powerful talk on "Engaging Girls in STEM Education: Strategies and Best Practices." Encouraging young girls to believe in themselves, she remarked, "As a woman, don't look down on yourself; be bold. I had humble beginnings and faced many challenges, but I loved mathematics and worked hard to excel."
Prof. Akinola stressed the importance of the early introduction of STEM education, urging parents to nurture their daughters' interests in mathematics and science. "Parents should encourage their kids, especially girls," she advised, noting that societal expectations often hinder girls from pursuing academic excellence in STEM subjects. She highlighted the crucial role of interaction, scholarships, and community involvement in motivating young females to excel.
"In conclusion, engaging girls in STEM requires a comprehensive strategy and concerted efforts to tackle existing challenges," Prof. Akinola affirmed.
In an exclusive interview with CEOAFRICA, Prof. Akinola emphasized the importance of encouraging young girls. "We are here to enlighten them that being a woman does not limit your potential," she stated. "I urge women and girls to identify their goals and pursue them relentlessly. The only thing that can inhibit your rise is your refusal to rise. Every fall is an opportunity to get back up. This workshop is a crucial innovation aimed at increasing the representation of women in STEM in Nigeria, allowing us to challenge stereotypes and biases."
As the workshop progressed, Dr. Ayojesutofunmi Abiodun-Solanke took the stage as the second guest speaker, delivering an illuminating presentation on "The Future of Women and Girls in Science: Emerging Trends and Opportunities." A recognized researcher and academic, she highlighted the underrepresentation of women and girls in STEM fields, emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusion for fostering innovation.
"Women and girls are underrepresented in STEM," Dr. Abiodun-Solanke stated. "Empowering women and girls in science can help address global challenges. It’s primarily women you find in nursing roles, but we need to change that narrative. Why can’t we be doctors too? You do not have to limit yourself to certain professions; you can excel in any field."
She pointed out that the evolving landscape of STEM presents numerous opportunities, particularly in technology, where innovative solutions to problems are increasingly needed. "Despite the challenges of gender inequality, women possess the potential to lead across all sectors, including politics in Nigeria," she asserted. "To overcome barriers in science, we must provide resources and support for women and girls, refusing to impose limits on ourselves."
Dr. Abiodun-Solanke concluded with powerful quotes: "You can’t hope to build a better world without improving the individual. When you educate a man, you educate a man, but when you educate a woman, you educate a generation." Her words resonated deeply with the audience, inspiring many to envision a future where women actively contribute to shaping scientific advancements.
The third guest speaker, Dr. Oluwafikemi Iji, an esteemed ecosystem and medical researcher, addressed the audience on the topic "Breaking Down Barriers: Overcoming Stereotypes and Bias in STEM." She passionately asserted the importance of self-empowerment, declaring, "You don’t have to apologize for your existence to anyone. Historically, women have had to fight for every right they've earned. If you don’t fight for your cause, nobody's going to hand anything over to you."
Dr. Iji discussed how stereotypes often lead to unequal treatment of males and females from a very young age, highlighting how these biases can dictate career choices for girls. "Research shows that as early as three years old, boys often accept information more readily from male figures than female ones," she noted. "As parents and role models, we must be mindful of how we contribute to these unconscious biases, such as saying, 'Daddy will handle that,' leading children to undervalue the contributions of women."
She urged the audience to challenge stereotypes and encourage a wider variety of opinions and approaches in problem-solving, underscoring that every woman has the potential to shine, regardless of circumstances. "We need to be intentional in our actions. Every woman should learn to open the door and keep it open for other women in STEM," she emphasized.
Dr. Iji encouraged every woman to take a seat at the table, adding, "If there’s no chair for you, grab a folding chair and insert yourself into the conversation. Make sure you sit like the boss lady that you are destined to be."
The final guest speaker, Dr. Omolara Jemimah Ojeizele, an accomplished chemist and the Dean of Pure and Applied Science at the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, took the floor to deliver a compelling presentation on "Leadership Development for Women and Girls in Science." Dr. Ojeizele emphasized that leadership is about guiding others to solve problems and achieve growth, highlighting the unique qualities women bring to leadership roles, such as empathy and persuasive power.
"As girls, you are already leaders," she affirmed. "Women inherently possess qualities that can drive innovation. We should have more females in leadership positions within STEM because diversity strengthens our ability to multitask and solve complex problems." She outlined practical steps for developing leadership skills, encouraging attendees to embrace their unique strengths, build self-confidence, and overcome self-doubt, commonly known as imposter syndrome.
Dr. Ojeizele urged aspiring leaders to speak up and share their ideas confidently, advocate for themselves, and seek feedback. "An effective leader understands different perspectives," she emphasized, while also endorsing the importance of mentorship and networking in career development. "Prepare yourself at all times, join professional organizations, and strive to be a person of integrity," she added.
In her motivating conclusion, Dr. Ojeizele encouraged girls to embrace their curiosity and pursue STEM careers passionately, while urging women to mentor the next generation. "Let’s advocate for transformative change in science and actively support programs that empower girls and and women in STEM."
Following the lecture sessions, the atmosphere of the workshop became more interactive as students eagerly posed questions to the speakers. This engaging Q&A session allowed attendees to delve deeper into the topics discussed, gaining additional insights and practical advice from the experts present. The eagerness of the students to engage in meaningful dialogue underscored the passion for learning and the communal desire to tackle issues related to gender representation in STEM.
Prof. Juliana Amaka Ugwu, the NWiSTEM Coordinator for Oyo State, echoed the sentiments shared by her colleagues, revealing that determination has been her driving force despite the challenges she faces as a woman in her career. "I find motivation by looking up to those who have paved the way before me, and I encourage aspiring scientists to stay focused and committed to their goals, regardless of obstacles," she advised.
She further emphasized the need to empower women within society, stating, "Culturally, women are often marginalized, which is why I have a passion for initiatives like this workshop. To sustain any society, we must place women at the forefront and in leadership roles; when women are included, society thrives."
The workshop concluded with a collective call to action for all attendees to actively participate in mentorship and support programs that empower women and girls in STEM. As the Network of Nigerian Women in STEM (NWiSTEM) and Nigerian Women in Agriculture Research for Development (NiWARD) look toward the future, the insights gained from this workshop hold tremendous potential for inspiring a transformative approach to gender representation in the sciences, laying a solid foundation for the next generation of female leaders in Nigeria.
Through these impactful discussions and the invaluable experiences shared by the speakers, the event not only celebrated the achievements of women and girls in science but also fostered a renewed commitment to building an inclusive scientific community, wherein every girl and woman feels empowered to pursue her dreams and aspirations in STEM.
