Group urges investment in youth, gender inclusion in STEM
Founder of the Association of Childhood Education Practitioners (ACEP), Hajia Olaitan Oshodi, has urged stakeholders to deepen investment in youth development and promote stronger gender inclusion in Science, Technology, Engineering
Founder of the Association of Childhood Education Practitioners (ACEP), Hajia Olaitan Oshodi, has urged stakeholders to deepen investment in youth development and promote stronger gender inclusion in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education.
She appealed during her welcome address at the International Day for Education and International Day of Women and Girls in Science celebration organised by ACEP, held recently in Lagos.
The event featured the recognition of outstanding female students and young professionals in science and digital innovation, as stakeholders renewed their commitment to breaking stereotypes, expanding equal opportunities and strengthening girl-child education.
Addressing educators, policymakers, parents and students, Oshodi described the twin global observances as more than symbolic events, noting that they serve as reminders of the collective responsibility to build a future where education empowers, and science drives sustainable development.
Speaking on the theme, “The Power of Youth in Co-Creating” and “From Vision to Impact: Redefining STEM by Closing the Gap,” Oshodi described it as a strong call to action.
“Our young people are not just leaders of tomorrow; they are partners of today. Co-creation means giving them a voice in designing solutions, shaping policies and innovating for their communities,” she said.
She stressed that empowering young people to think critically and innovate boldly can transform the nation, adding that STEM must no longer be perceived as exclusive or intimidating.
“We must close the gender gap, bridge access disparities and dismantle stereotypes that discourage girls and marginalised children from pursuing scientific careers,” she stated.
In her keynote address, Director of the Intergovernmental Group of Twenty-Four (G-24), Dr. Iyabo Masha, underscored the need to move beyond rhetoric to measurable impact, particularly in emerging fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity.
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She observed that although many Nigerian girls show interest in science at the junior secondary level, their participation declines at advanced stages due to structural and societal barriers — a situation she described as a “leaky pipeline.”
Similarly, Chairman of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), Dr. Hakeem Babatunde Shittu, reaffirmed the board's commitment to strengthening STEM education in public schools, with deliberate attention to empowering girls.
He commended ACEP for its sustained advocacy for quality early childhood education and emphasised that gender inclusion in STEM must begin at the foundational stages of learning.
“When we expose girls early to curiosity, experimentation and problem-solving, we are preparing them not just for careers, but for leadership and innovation,” he said.
