The Coordinator, Office of the Edo First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has stressed that closing the gender gap in STEM is essential to driving innovation, progress, and sustainable development in Africa.
She made this known at a meeting held at Government House with members of the female scientific community to mark the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. The event, themed “From Vision to Impact: Redefining STEM and Closing the Gender Gap,” brought together women and girls making strides in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Speaking at the gathering, Mrs. Anani underscored the transformative power of science, describing it as more than just an opportunity. According to her, science is about harnessing ideas to create solutions that uplift communities and shape Africa’s future.
She said women’s contributions are pivotal in shaping a future where technology serves as a catalyst for human progress and fosters sustainable development. She also commended women and girls in STEM as changemakers who are redefining the field despite longstanding male dominance.
In her words, “I commend every woman and girl who’s daring to be different in STEM. You’re not just pursuing careers; you’re breaking barriers and changing the narrative in fields where men have traditionally dominated. Your courage, creativity, and determination are an inspiration, and your contributions are shaping a future where technology truly serves humanity. Your presence in these fields is a game-changer; keep pushing beyond boundaries.”
Mrs. Anani highlighted pioneering women in the sciences who have driven meaningful change through innovative breakthroughs and forward-thinking ideas. She noted that by breaking barriers and defying stereotypes, these trailblazers are paving the way for future generations of female scientists, engineers, and innovators.
She cited notable examples including Wendy Okolo, an aerospace engineer and the first black woman to earn a PhD in aerospace engineering; the late Dr. Stella Adadevoh, a physician instrumental in containing the 2014 Ebola outbreak in Nigeria; Dora Akunyili, former Director-General of Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), recognized for her efforts to combat counterfeit drugs; and Adeola Olubamiji, the first black person to earn a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, among others.
She emphasized that overcoming cultural challenges and bridging the gender gap in STEM fields remain critical to fostering greater inclusivity and innovation. According to her, creating a supportive environment is necessary to ensure that more women and girls can thrive in science and technology.
To achieve greater impact, Mrs. Anani called for collaborative efforts to provide mentorship, resources, and opportunities that will empower girls and women to pursue their passions in STEM.
The event ended with a strong appeal for collective action aimed at bridging the STEM gender gap and unlocking a brighter future for Africa.
