In a united effort to promote gender equality in opportunities, engineers have pledged to extend their focus beyond the girl-child, embracing a comprehensive approach that includes support for boys.
This, they made known yesterday at the investiture ceremony of the 18th president of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Engr Adebisi Osim in Abuja.
Speaking, the APWEN new president Adebisi Osim said that the initiative aims to foster diversity and equality by integrating practices that provide equal access to opportunities and resources within the broader society.
She noted that as part of this commitment, the engineers are launching a groundbreaking outreach programme named ‘STEM For All.’
STEM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These four fields share an emphasis on innovation, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
Osim said, “This inclusive initiative is designed to reach both primary and secondary school students, emphasising hands-on science as a powerful method to stimulate creative thinking.
“The engineers believe that unity is strength and, by setting collective goals and aspirations, they can contribute to a society where every individual, regardless of gender, has an equal chance to explore and excel in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
“Through STEM-For-All, they aim to instil a passion for STEM education from an early age, laying the foundation for a more inclusive and equal future.
“Together we can create an environment where each voice is not only heard but valued. We will harness the collective brilliance of our diverse membership to drive positive change, innovation and a lasting impact in the engineering landscape.
“My leadership approach will prioritise membership, support, and a shared commitment to excellence ensuring that every engineer in APWEN contributes meaningfully to our collective success.”
In her address, the former APWEN President, Engr Elizabeth Eterigho, Urges members to unite with new leadership for association’s advancement.
She emphasised the importance of unity among members to support the association’s new leadership. Eterigho highlighted the spirit of togetherness and love for both the progress of the association and the nation at large.
Meanwhile, the president of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr Margaret Oguntala expressed confidence in the transformative power of collaboration with the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN).
“I believe that your leadership will work with excellence to propel the Association of Women Engineers to new heights,” declared the NSE leader.
However, amidst optimism, a call for responsibility resonated as the leader emphasised, “To whom much is given, much is expected.”
With a rallying cry for unity, she beckoned all members to join hands in a collective effort to elevate their organisations. “It is with this understanding that I beckon all of you to join hands with me as we hit the ground running.”
The NSE leader affirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Society of Engineers to collaborate wholeheartedly with APWEN. Recognising the crucial role of women in engineering, the NSE pledged to foster an inclusive environment where every engineer, regardless of gender, can contribute meaningfully to a shared vision.
“As we embark on this journey, let me assure you that the Nigerian Society of Engineers, under my leadership, is wholeheartedly committed to collaborating with APWEN.
She recognises the significance of women in engineering, and we are dedicated to fostering an environment where every engineer, regardless of gender, can contribute meaningfully to our shared vision. This collaboration marks a promising step towards gender inclusivity and collective progress in the engineering community.
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