The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaj, has advocated gender equality in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
Nnaji made this call in his speech during this year’s International Day for Women and Girls in Science, tagged: “Women and Girls in Science Leadership: A New Era for Sustainability”.
He said, “Despite strides towards progress, gender equality in STEM remains an elusive goal; as women are usually relegated to the background on key STEM issues.”
He, therefore, advocated equality, saying: “To harness the transformative power of science and technology, we must ensure that every voice, regardless of gender, is heard and valued.”
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He assured girls dreaming of a future in science that their curiosity, intellect and passion mattered; noting that they were not just scientists of tomorrow, but of today.
He called on women already blazing trails in science to remember the importance of lifting others as they climbed.
He called for the creation of an environment where every woman and girl felt empowered to pursue their passion for discovery and exploration.
He added: “Let us break down barriers, challenge stereotypes and create pathways for success for all.”