In commemoration of the 2019 International Day of Women and Girls in Science themed ‘Investment in Women in Science for Inclusive Green Growth,’ Oando plc, led by a delegation of its female engineers, mentored female pupils in one of the Oando Foundation adopted primary schools, Arch Bishop Taylor Primary School, Victoria Island.
They mentored the pupils on the role and importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in the world, why they are passionate about STEM and proud to have built successful careers in it.
The aim of the programme was to provide a platform for the female engineers to engage female pupils towards considering and embracing STEM subjects for a future career in STEM by sharing real life and relatable stories that would inspire the young girls.
In order to achieve full and equal access to, and participation in science for women and girls, and to further achieve gender equality and female empowerment, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring February 11 of every year as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
According to the UN, “A significant gender gap has persisted throughout the years at all levels of STEM disciplines all over the world. Even though women have made tremendous progress towards increasing their participation in higher education, they are still under represented in these fields.”
In a bid to fight the long-standing biases and gender stereotypes steering girls and women away from science related fields, a cross section of Oando’s female engineers spoke to the pupils on a wide range of STEM related topics, such as: Why mathematics and science are important in the real world; Opportunities that exist for girls/women in STEM; as well as games and engaging activities intended to stimulate the pupils’ interest in the sciences.
Seun Solanke, principal reservoir engineer, Oando Energy Resources, one of the mentors, advised the girls to be proactive in their research into STEM-related careers, she also spoke extensively on what motivated her to a career in the sciences.
Lolade Shebanjo, project planning/controls engineer, Oando, said, “I felt fortunate to be surrounded by future female scientists. I was reminded of the fact that when you wear a helmet, it doesn’t matter if you are a woman or a man; your mission is to keep achieving.”
In a joint statement, Audrey Azoulay, director-general of UNESCO, and Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, executive director of UN Women, said, “Young women scientists are already making a difference in the fight against climate change, including South-African teenager Kiara Nirghin whose inventions minimise the impact of droughts.
“By harnessing the creativity and innovation of all women and girls in science, and properly investing in inclusive STEM education, research and development and STI ecosystems, we have an unprecedented opportunity to leverage the potential of the Fourth Industrial Revolution to benefit society.”
