Lagos: The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) has introduced a play-based initiative to demystify and simplify science subjects for 160 secondary school girls in Lagos. The event, hosted by the President of the association and sponsored by Worley Foundation, was held at Girls Senior High School, Iyana Ipaja, Agege Road.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Jumoke Olowowaste, APWEN Waste Museum Director, guided students through practical sessions on utilising waste materials to create artworks, jewellery, and household items. ‘Waste is not waste until you waste it. You can turn all waste into art,’ she emphasized. Mrs Tolulope Erinosho, National Technical Secretary of APWEN, also conducted practical demonstrations on energy generation methods, including solar, wind, and electricity.
APWEN President, Dr Adebisi Osim, highlighted the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) as gateways to innovation and problem-solving. She stressed the need for Nigeria to ensure that young women and girls can embrace STEM with confidence, hence the introduction of fun activities. Osim noted that the first edition of the event was held in 2024 in Calabar, while the second phase occurred in Lagos Education District One. The project aims to enhance STEM education across Nigeria, targeting 300 students, 100 educators, and 100 APWEN engineers.
Osim commended pioneer female engineers who altered the male-dominated field and noted that APWEN has grown to over 3,000 members, mentoring thousands more. Despite progress, a recent UNESCO report states that women make up only about 35 percent of STEM students globally. Osim emphasized the need to increase female experts to address challenges such as climate change, renewable energy, and digital transformation. She added that teachers and young engineers were also part of the project to ensure faster transfer of knowledge.
APWEN Lagos Chapter Chairperson, Mrs Bosede Oyekunle, who also serves as Worley Project Champion, said the theme resonated with the association’s vision. Oyekunle highlighted the importance of using fun to spark interest in learning, helping children appreciate and pursue engineering and science courses. Mittal Megha, Legal Director of Worley Foundation, joined the event virtually and explained her passion for community growth and the partnership with APWEN. Adedoyin Talabi, Project Manager at Delta Afrik Engineering Ltd. and Worley representative, noted that 25 percent of slots were allocated to boys for inclusivity.