Ikeja: The Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC) has reaffirmed its dedication to closing the gender gap in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) through its prominent initiative, the She Creates Camp. Diamond Oshomoji, Programme Coordinator of W.TEC, emphasized this commitment during the graduation ceremony of the 18th edition of the initiative held at Laureates College, Ikeja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Oshomoji highlighted that the initiative not only aims to bridge the gender divide but also to equip young women for careers in traditionally male-dominated fields. The two-week residential camp, themed ‘Byte by Byte, AI for Action’, provided training for 40 girls in robotics, artificial intelligence-powered web development, the internet of things (IoT), and marine engineering. In addition to technical training, the girls also learned filmmaking, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship.
Oshomoji further explained that the camp included creative activities such as bead-making, fashion design, and painting to foster innovation, teamwork, and problem-solving skills among the participants. She stressed the importance of acquiring 21st-century skills such as artificial intelligence and robotics to remain competitive globally. Notably, 39 out of the 40 attendees received full scholarships from corporate partners, individuals, and W.TEC, underscoring strong support for female inclusion in technology.
Mr. Yemi Odutola, W.TEC’s External Relations Lead, remarked on the transformative impact of the camp over the years, noting a significant boost in confidence and skills among participants. He shared that the girls developed projects like smart dustbins, AI-powered lights, and websites, alongside creative outputs in arts and crafts.
Mr. Tobi Durojaiye, a member of W.TEC’s Advisory Board, highlighted the camp’s long-term influence, with past participants returning as mentors. He cited the example of an alumna who joined the camp in 2014 and is now a software engineer, illustrating the multiplier effect of the program. Durojaiye called for increased sponsorships to expand the camp nationwide, emphasizing the crucial role of investing in girls and women in technology for Nigeria’s economic future.
Two participants from the 2025 cohort, Ifeoluwa Ojo from Epe and Mutiat Moshood from Apapa, shared their transformative experiences. Ojo expressed newfound inspiration to pursue a career in robotics, while Moshood gained confidence in public speaking and teamwork.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the She Creates Camp, launched 18 years ago, is W.TEC’s flagship program aimed at offering young girls aged 13 to 17 early exposure to technology, creativity, mentorship, and leadership skills.