Empowering Young Girls to Succeed in Engineering
In a bid to create more opportunities for women in science and technology, female students in Kano are being encouraged to pursue careers in engineering and other STEM fields.
The initiative aims to break gender barriers and inspire young girls to explore industries traditionally dominated by men.
This call to action was made during the 2025 International Day of Women and Girls in Science event in Kano.
Speaking at the event, Moses Agbara, Director of Programs at the Youth Initiative for Sustainable Human Development in Africa, emphasized the importance of connecting young girls with their future aspirations.
“Our mission is to ensure young people have access to policies and programs that will benefit them,” Agbara stated.
Bridging the Gender Gap in STEM
The event, supported by IHS Nigeria and organized in collaboration with the Women Technology Empowerment Center (WTEC), aims to increase female participation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
According to Lesley, WTEC’s Curriculum Development Coordinator, initiatives like this are essential in motivating young girls to embrace STEM careers.
“Not everyone will choose a STEM path, but the more we encourage girls, the better we can close the gender gap in engineering and technology,” Lesley explained.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The highlight of the event was a speech by Zeenatu Yaradua, a Field Site Engineer at IHS Nigeria, who shared her personal journey as a northern Nigerian woman in engineering.
“Engineering is not just for men. Girls can succeed in this field too! Don’t let outdated stereotypes hold you back,” Yaradua encouraged.
The event, themed “Charting Her Path: Exploring Exciting Careers in STEM,” was hosted at the Kano New Girls Science and Technology College.
It featured interactive sessions where 100 female students participated in hands-on STEM activities, including assembling rechargeable lamps.
Investing in the Future
To further support STEM education, IHS Nigeria donated science equipment, including two Arduino kits, to the school.
College director Sadeeqatu Abdullahi expressed her gratitude, emphasizing that such initiatives help challenge the misconception that engineering is only for men.
“This program is empowering our girls to see themselves as future engineers and scientists,” she said.
Join the Movement!
With more young girls stepping into STEM, the future of engineering in Nigeria is set to become more inclusive.
What are your thoughts on women in engineering? Let’s discuss in the comments!
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