By Chukwudi Nweje
In a move aimed at promoting the study of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) among female students and bridging the gender disparity gap in the field, the founder of Neya Kalu Foundation and publisher and chairman of The Sun Publishing Ltd, Neya Kalu, has partnered with St. Saviour’s School, Ikoyi to launch a new initiative, FEMGINEERS.
The initiative aims to inspire female students from public schools to take an interest in STEM subjects and to develop an awareness of an area that has potential career opportunities in the future.
The project also seeks to develop these student’s problem-solving and innovation skills and foster a culture of inclusivity and empowerment.
Mr Craig Heaton, head teacher at St. Saviour’s said Junior Secondary 2 students from Government Junior College, Ikoyi have been invited to participate in the two-day programme in practical investigations and enquiry-based activities around the theme of ‘flight and forces’ scheduled for Tuesday and today.
“By breaking stereotypes and challenging societal norms, in our little way, we are looking to contribute to a potential future where girls feel empowered to pursue their passions in STEM without hesitation or doubt.
“We have developed a specific programme of study for the project around the theme of ‘Flight and Forces’ that will be delivered to the students over the two days. Ms. Rothwell and Mr. Gray have kindly volunteered to be the lead facilitators for the two days. We intend to hold a FEMGINEERS project once every term throughout the academic year”.
He noted that modern society is driven by technology and engineering and that the importance of
STEM cannot be overstated.
He lamented that despite progress, there is still “a noticeable gender gap within these STEM fields that is even more pronounced within communities that have considerable socio-economic challenges.
“The initiative seeks to develop the target student’s problem-solving and innovation skills and also to foster a culture of inclusivity and empowerment by breaking stereotypes and challenging societal norms.
“In our little way, we are looking to contribute to a potential future where girls feel empowered to pursue their passions in STEM without hesitation or doubt.”
Heaton thanked Neya Kalu Foundation and The Sun Publishing Ltd for partnering with it on FEMGINEERS.
“We are extremely grateful to our sponsors, The Neya Kalu Foundation and The Sun Newspaper for helping the school make this happen.”
The Neva Kalu Foundation is an organisation that aims to work with development partners, international and local organisations and donors in pursuing programmes and initiatives aimed at enhancing the economic and psychological well-being of women, children and other vulnerable members of society. It has empowered thousands of vulnerable women and children across Nigeria.
In November 2023, Neya was awarded the Best Social Impact and Sustainability Award, (SISA) by CSR REPORTERS’ in recognition and celebration of her inspiring and ethical business leadership; creating change and building a better community for the future of Nigeria and Nigerians.