BY RITA OYIBOKA
THE United Nations Eminent Ambassador and Global Ambassador for Gender Priority Strategy, Dr. Ogochuku Okekpolo has called for urgent measures to bridge the gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
Her remarks came as part of the global observance of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, held annually on 11th February to promote equal access to science education and celebrate the achievements of women in STEM.
Speaking during a strategy meeting with the Delta State Coordinator of the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE), Mrs. Keonyenasoa Odijie, and other stakeholders, Dr. Okekpolo underscored the need for teachers to inspire confidence in girls and foster a culture of curiosity and leadership in science-related subjects. She stressed that educators must take a proactive role in identifying and mentoring young girls with an aptitude for science to ensure greater female representation in STEM fields.
According to her, “To promote gender equality in STEM education, we must implement more STEM clubs for girls, introduce gender-inclusive curricula, and provide targeted teacher training. Scholarships and mentorship programmes can transform curious students into the next generation of female scientists.”
Dr. Okekpolo also urged schools and policymakers to create inclusive learning environments that actively support girls in STEM, stressing that a combined effort from educators, institutions, and government is necessary to close the gender gap.
