The Lagos chapter of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), on Friday, donated 60 JAMB forms to students willing to study engineering and sciences to promote innovations in the nation.

The chairman of the association, Atinuke Owolabi, presented the JAMB forms to 50 girls and 10 boys at a workshop to commemorate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

The event, which took place at Bola Ige Millennium Secondary School, Ajegunle, was held in collaboration with the Ajeromi- Ifelodun Local Government.

She said the 2024 theme, “Women in Science Leadership: A New Era for Sustainability,” highlighted the indispensable role women play in shaping scientific progress.

She said the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, was traditionally celebrated on Feb. 11, but was being observed ahead of time by APWEN to ensure wider participation.

“While we acknowledge women’s accomplishments in science, we must also address the barriers hindering girls’ full access to STEM fields,” she said.

She said APWEN was dedicated to advocating for gender equality in STEM to remove systemic barriers for inclusive opportunities for young girls to pursue their scientific passions.

Mrs Owolabi said through APWEN’s mentorship, the female students from diverse backgrounds could be empowered to pursue STEM careers.

“Through engaging discussions, workshops, hands-on STEM activities, and inspiring talks, let’s reaffirm our commitment to creating a world where every girl can thrive in science and engineering.

“As part of our commitment to encouraging girls to pursue STEM careers, particularly in engineering, we’ll be providing 50 free JAMB forms for girls interested in engineering, with 10 forms also allocated to boys in science classes.

“This initiative reflects our belief in diversity and inclusion, ensuring that both girls and boys have equal opportunities to excel.

“While sports are essential, embracing science, technology, and innovation is crucial for national development.

“We urge the government to collaborate with organisations like Association of Professional Women Engineers, APWEN, to celebrate and support women driving innovation in our country,” she said.

Also, the federal controller, Lagos State Federal Ministry of Works, Olukorede Kesha, encouraged the girls not to limit themselves to the stereotype that they could only do some certain jobs such as teaching and nursing.

She said that there was this belief that women’s brains don’t have the capability to carry much in terms of academics.

According to her, women have been reduced to people who belong in the kitchen.

She, however, said that nowadays, things had changed and no man wanted to marry a liability, noting that girls should take their science subjects seriously.

“Avoid distractions; this is the time to study hard so that you can break boundaries, do not be distracted by boys.

“There are so many opportunities in studying Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects.

“Also, there are lots of areas in sciences that are yearning for discovery and I believe you will all excel to work in these areas,” Ms Kesha said.

According to her, STEM profession is revolutionising the world.

She urged the female students not to allow finances to limit their hopes of studying science subjects.

 (NAN)