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By Glory Awusi
In commemoration of the International Day of the girl child, Girl Child Engineer Initiative (GCEI), a Non- Governmental Organisation, through its program, ‘Catch Them Young for Engineering’, has sensitised young girls to explore more engineering and STEM-related activities in school and in their leisure time.
At an event held recently in Lagos to motivate more participation, the founder of GCEI, Terese Ihenachor, said the vision of the organisation is to empower the Nigerian girl child to study engineering and be technologically innovative.
She said that building the female gender has become an important action and that GCEI believes that when you empower a girl child through engineering education, it will improve the technological advancement of Nigeria because their innovative nature will help drive economic growth better.
Iheanachor also said that GCEI believes one of the key challenges in encouraging girl children to pursue engineering lies in dismantling gender stereotypes.
“The girl child has long been underrepresented in the field of engineering, despite possessing the same potential and capabilities as their male counterparts and we cannot afford the cost to our national development in this 21st century. Providing opportunities and access to engineering education for girl children, will help empower them to pursue fulfilling careers in this rapidly evolving and impactful field of technology and ICT.
“The aftermath of gender disparity is the portrayed belief that engineering is a male -dominated field, discouraging girls from entering the profession.
Highlighting successful female engineers and their contributions can serve as inspiration, challenging preconceived notions and promoting gender equality within the engineering sector. Closing the gender gap in engineering starts with early exposure and engagement.
“By providing resources, excursions to industries, mentoring programs and scholarships specifically tailored to girl children, we can bridge the gender gap and create a more inclusive engineering community. Engineering often requires problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and innovative approaches.
“Encouraging girl children to develop these skills can help build their confidence and self-belief, enabling them to pursue engineering with conviction. Cultivating a supportive and nurturing environment where girls are encouraged to voice their ideas without judgment is vital in shaping their future as engineers. Including more girl children in engineering not only promotes gender equality but also brings diverse perspectives to the table.
“Research suggests that diverse teams, including women, are more likely to generate innovative and effective solutions. Increasing the representation of girl children in engineering will not only benefit their individual growth but also drive advancements in technology, infrastructure, and other critical areas. Empowering girl children to join the ICT economy through engineering education is an essential step towards creating a more equitable and prosperous society.
“By breaking down gender stereotypes, providing early exposure, fostering confidence, and promoting diverse perspectives, we can unleash the immense potential of girl child and drive innovation in the field of engineering. Let us work together to ensure opportunities for all, regardless of gender and pave the way for a brighter future,” she said.
