Lagos: The Women Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to closing the gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) careers through targeted programmes and an annual hackathon for secondary school girls.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, W.TEC Founder, Mrs. Oreoluwa Lesi, emphasized this commitment at the 2025 edition of the hackathon held at Wesley Secondary School, Yaba, in commemoration of the International Day of the Girl-Child. The event, themed ‘She Solves for Change’, highlighted numerous initiatives aimed at empowering young girls in STEM fields.
Lesi shared that the organization has engaged over 52,000 girls, women, boys, and teachers through various programmes, including those with developmental disabilities like Down Syndrome and autism, by introducing them to technology skills. She noted that 69 percent of the girls who attended W.TEC programmes were inspired to pursue STEM careers, with 25 percent already studying STEM-related courses in universities.
The centre extends support beyond the competition by mentoring participants to develop their projects into real-life products or services that can generate income. W.TEC Advisory Board Member, Mr. Tobi Durojaye, praised the participants for their creativity and problem-solving abilities, emphasizing the global competitiveness of the solutions created by Nigerian youths.
One of the winning students, Miss Aisha Tasiu from Lagos City Senior College, shared that her team’s Open Book Library project was aimed at encouraging reading habits among students. Another participant, Miss Favour Solomon, expressed that W.TEC’s STEM camp boosted her confidence to pursue a career in web development.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the Hackathon provided young girls with practical experience in designing technology-driven solutions, equipping them with real-world skills and confidence. The event was held in partnership with Oracle Academy.