Ibadan: Women professionals in geospatial science and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields have called for stronger mentorship, early exposure, and supportive policies to increase girls’ participation in science-driven careers. The professionals made the call in Ibadan on Tuesday at a ‘Women in Geospatial Leadership Programme’.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event was organized by the Geoinformation Society of Nigeria (GEOSON), Oyo State Chapter, to commemorate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. On the sidelines of the event, Prof. Olutoyin Fashae, Head of the Department of Geography at the University of Ibadan, emphasized the need to expose girls to STEM fields from an early age. Fashae stated that introducing secondary school students to geospatial science is a step in the right direction as early exposure will help them develop an interest in the field. She advised young girls to remain diligent, focused, and seek mentors who could guide them in achieving their aspirations.
Mrs. Elizabeth Olayiwola, a Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors, shared her personal journey, explaining that her passion for geography began in secondary school and later evolved into a career in surveying and geospatial science. She encouraged young girls to view themselves as problem solvers and contributors to societal development. Mrs. Opeyemi Ojo, Principal Manager of Go To Environmentalists and Planners, stressed the importance of mentoring and outreach programs for secondary schools. She noted that professional bodies, including the Nigerian Association of Women Town Planners, had been engaging students to raise awareness about opportunities in environmental planning and sustainability.
Dr. Adedotun Afolayan, Assistant Secretary of the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World, Nigeria Chapter, called for intensified sensitization and advocacy. She emphasized the importance of successful women in science sharing their stories with younger students to inspire them and bridge existing gender gaps. Mrs. Ololade Aduloju, a teacher at the American Christian Academy, advocated integrating science and technology concepts across disciplines in the curriculum rather than treating them as isolated subjects. According to her, policy reforms will be necessary to drive curriculum changes that promote interdisciplinary learning.
Similarly, Mrs. Serah Peter-Adeoye, a Machine Learning Engineer with Data Science Nigeria, highlighted the need for mentorship and exposure, particularly in emerging areas such as geospatial artificial intelligence. She noted that many girls lacked relatable role models in advanced technology fields. Prof. Grace Olukoi of the Lead City University, Ibadan, underscored the need to incentivize science teachers and adopt friendlier teaching methods to reduce fear associated with subjects such as mathematics. She also called for curriculum reforms and improved welfare for science-based teachers to encourage better outcomes.
Mrs. Raheemat Adabanija, an engineer and Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, identified stereotypes and gender bias as barriers limiting girls’ participation in STEM. Adabanija, also a Director at the Management Information Centre, Office of Oyo State Government, urged government and stakeholders to provide equal opportunities for women. She added that associations of women engineers and surveyors should continue mentoring efforts. Mrs. Sabainah Adekunle, a Field Land Surveyor and Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors, advised the government to view girls as valuable assets, capable of excelling in science and technology fields.