Every year, on February 11th, the world comes together to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women and girls in science. The International Day of Women and Girls in Science serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of gender inclusivity in STEM fields. It highlights the need for more opportunities, mentorship, and support for young girls aspiring to excel in STEM. In line with this global movement, Paritie Innovation Hub organized an event to commemorate the day. It was aimed to;
- Provide a 1-day educational experience for female science students from various secondary schools in Minna.
- Inspire and empower female science students, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to pursue careers in STEM.
- Raise awareness about the gender gap in STEM and promote inclusivity in science-related fields.
- Strengthen Paritie Innovation Hub’s brand awareness and establish relationships with schools and ministries for future collaborations.
Proceedings – Empowering Women and Girls in Science
The event kicked off with an inspiring opening remark from Syed Abdullahi, the Human Resource Manager. Following this, Jennifer Nalimi, our Brand/Graphics Design Intern provided an insightful overview of Paritie Innovation Hub, shedding light on its mission, services and impact.
The event featured two engaging speaker sessions by esteemed professionals:
- Miss Halima Taoheed, a lecturer at Federal University of Technology, Minna, spoke on The Role of Mentorship and Networking in Shaping Women and Girls in Science, emphasizing the power of guidance and connections in advancing careers in STEM.
- Mrs. Helen William Umaru, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of MSMEs, Niger State, followed with an empowering session on Overcoming Challenges Faced by Women and Girls in Science, addressing common barriers and strategies to break through them.
An interactive Q&A session allowed students and teachers to engage with the speakers, posing questions about mentorship, securing scholarships, and navigating STEM careers. The session was enlightening and provided practical advice for young girls aspiring to excel in STEM.
Also Read – International Day of the Girl Child
A defining moment of the event was the Girls in Science Declaration, where all attendees stood together to recite a powerful affirmation of their commitment to pioneering change in STEM.
DECLARATION
I am a girl with ideas, creativity, and power.
I am smart, bold, and capable of greatness.
Science is for me, and I belong in it.
I will ask questions, seek knowledge, and explore new ideas.
I will not let fear or doubt stop me from learning.
I will break barriers and challenge stereotypes.
I am a problem-solver, a leader, and a change-maker.
My voice matters, my dreams are valid, and my future is bright.
I am a girl in science - unstoppable, fearless, and ready to change the world!
The event concluded with a closing remark from Paul Onokoka, the Community Manager, followed by a few words from Mr. Syed Abdullahi. The event successfully wrapped up, leaving participants motivated and inspired.
This event reaffirmed the importance of mentorship, networking, and resilience in empowering young girls in science. With the right support and partnerships, we can continue to break barriers and create a more inclusive future in STEM.