In celebration of the 2025 International Women’s Day, female students across Ibadan, Oyo State, have been urged to embrace careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) while challenging gender stereotypes that could hinder their growth.
The Black Girl’s Dream Initiative and the Global Shapers Community Ibadan organized the event, titled “Inspire Her Future,” on Wednesday. The one-day STEM workshop aimed to accelerate action for equality and advance opportunities for women and girls.
Students from nine secondary schools participated, including IMG, Oke-Bola; Oluyole High School; Quiver of Grace Heights; IMG Grammar School, Oje Igosun; Ikolaba High School; IMG Grammar School, Yemetu; Ikolaba Grammar School; Oba Akinbiyi High School; and Methodist Junior Grammar School.
Chairing the event, the Director of IT in the Oyo State Civil Service, Engr. Mrs. Raheemat Adabanija, applauded the NGOs for their efforts in inspiring and empowering young girls through STEM education. She emphasized the importance of exposing girls to STEM early and sharing real-life success stories to motivate them. She also called for increased awareness through social media to combat negative gender stereotypes in technology and STEM fields.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Adekunbi Omotoso, CEO of Apps and Scripts Technologies, encouraged the girls to believe in themselves and not allow societal stereotypes to define their ambitions.
The event reinforced the need for continuous advocacy and mentorship to bridge the gender gap in STEM and ensure equal opportunities for young girls in the field.
