Int’nl Day: APWEN wants policymakers investment in STEM education

Nathan Tamarapreye, Yenagoa

The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) has urged policymakers to invest in infrastructure that supports Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education for girls.

The National President of APWEN, Dr Adebisi Osim made the call on Thursday at the “2025 International Day of Women and Girls in Science”.

The event was held at the Eyabugbe Primary School, Ugborikoko, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta.

The theme of the global event was: “Empowering the Girl Child to Explore the Wonders of Science”.

In her address of welcome, Dr Osim said that the celebration was a clarion call to dismantle barriers and amplify opportunities for girls in STEM.

She said that female folks were underrepresented in the field of science, noting that many solutions to humanity’s challenges had remained undiscovered because of the shortfall.

The APWEN president expressed the believe that every girl deserved the chance to explore the wonders of science, ignite her curiosity and pursue her dreams without hindrances.

“For too long, societal norms have whispered to girls that STEM is “not for them.” APWEN rejects this notion.

 “The underrepresentation of women in STEM is not just a loss for these women; it is a loss for the entire world.

‘We are missing out on the unique perspectives, innovative ideas, and problem-solving skills that women bring to the table.

“By empowering girls in science, we are not only unlocking their potential but also enriching the entire scientific community.

“Through initiatives like mentorship programs, robotics workshops, and scholarships, we are equipping girls with the tools to not only enter STEM fields but to lead and innovate.

“The sub-theme, “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science,” challenges us to redefine narratives.

“To every girl in Nigeria and globally, we say that your voice matters; your ideas can reshape our world,” she said.

Osim said that APWEN remained at the forefront of advocating for gender-inclusive policies and fostering collaborations with industry leaders and educators.

She urged the parents to encourage their daughters to ask questions and appealed to the educators to cultivate classrooms where curiosity was celebrated.

Speaking to newsmen on the sideline, Princess Obhiemi, Chairman, APWEN, Warri chapter said that the programme was organised for pupils in primary five, six and students in the Junior Secondary School (JSS) 111 class.

“We are introducing the girl child to the basis of engineering. Engineering is seem to be an exclusive reserve for the men and we are trying to change the narrative,” she said.

The pupils in groups, were taken through different practical works including powering electric bulb using 9 volts batteries.