Child and Youth Protection Foundation (CYPF) has urged female role models to encourage young girls to develop an interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
The National Coordinator CYPF, Mr Kolawole Olatosimi, advised in Abuja on Thursday while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the commemoration of the 2024 International Girls in Information Communication Technology (ICT) Day.
NAN reports that the Day is an annual event, slated for April 25 to raise awareness about the gender gap in STEM fields and to encourage more girls and young women to pursue careers and education in ICT-related fields.
Olatosimi said female role models could shape the aspirations and ambitions of young girls’ interests in STEM fields.
“Female leaders in STEM serve as living proof that women can thrive in traditionally male-dominated industries and contribute valuable perspectives and insights to scientific and technological advancements.
“So, promoting female leadership in STEM is essential for fostering a more inclusive and diverse workforce. Research has shown that diverse teams are more innovative, creative, and effective at problem-solving. By encouraging more women to pursue leadership roles in STEM, we can harness the full potential of diverse perspectives and experiences to drive innovation and address global challenges,” Olatosimi said.
He added that leadership in STEM was not only about holding positions of authority but also about inspiring, guiding, and empowering others to pursue their passions and excel in their chosen fields.
Olatosimi said that the foundation had organised ICT training and provided laptops and desktops to some selected secondary schools in the FCT to teach and encourage girls to pursue their desires for STEM fields.
He said the purpose was to promote gender equality and bridge gender gap in STEM fields and promote greater gender equality by breaking down stereotypes and barriers that may deter them from pursuing STEM interests and careers.
(NAN)
