A Professor of Computer Science at the University of Ibadan, Oluseyi Osunade, has urged young women to take advantage of opportunities in science and technology, describing the fields as critical pathways to innovation, leadership and national development.

Osunade spoke while delivering a keynote address at the launch of the Girls in Science and Technology Initiative at Dominican University, Ibadan.

He noted that although several programmes have been established to encourage women’s participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), many girls remain disconnected from available opportunities.

According to him, the initiative seeks to bridge that gap by engaging girls directly and ensuring that interventions are tailored to their aspirations and challenges.

“Girls make a difference in society and within the family. When their creativity, resilience and ability to multitask are channelled into science and technology, the results can be transformative,” he said.

Osunade added that the initiative would reach girls at the grassroots level and support them in becoming productive contributors to society through innovation and technological advancement.

Earlier, the convener of the initiative, Dr. Kehinde Deji-Akinpelu, said the programme was designed to raise godly, competent and globally competitive young women equipped to excel in science and technology-related fields.

She explained that the initiative would focus on mentorship, capacity building, leadership development and character formation, while encouraging participants to become creators of jobs and solutions rather than job seekers.

“We want to nurture young women who can transform their ideas and academic projects into patents, start-ups and sustainable enterprises,” she said.

Deji-Akinpelu added that the initiative is anchored on the values of godliness, excellence, discipline, competence and leadership.

In her remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of Dominican University, Prof. Jacinta Opara, described the initiative as a transformative platform that would empower young women to discover their strengths and build confidence in pursuing careers in STEM.

“The world needs more women developing solutions, generating ideas and leading innovations that will shape the future. Never allow anyone to define your limits,” she told the students.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Oyo State Bureau of Digital Innovation and ICT, Roheemat Adabanija, expressed concern over the low level of female participation in STEM globally.

She noted that women account for only about 25 per cent of the STEM population and called for sustained mentorship, support and incentives to attract more girls into science and technology careers.

Adabanija stressed that celebrating the achievements of women in STEM and supporting those facing challenges would encourage more girls to pursue careers in the sector.

Also, the Oyo State Coordinator of the Nigeria Women in Information Technology (NIWIIT), Samotu Adejoke, urged girls to set clear goals, seek mentorship and remain focused on their educational aspirations.

She urged them to develop resilience and confidence in overcoming obstacles on their path to success.

The Head of Department, Computer Science, Lead City University, Dr. Bolanle Oyekunle, encouraged the students to remain committed to their ambitions and avoid distractions capable of derailing their future.

Oyekunle emphasised the importance of planning, determination and positive relationships in achieving academic and professional success.

Also, the Chairman of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Yemisi Abidoye, urged participants to embrace continuous learning and skills development.

According to her, women can excel in science and technology irrespective of their backgrounds if they remain focused, resilient and committed to self-improvement.

She also urged the students to identify their strengths, address their weaknesses and seek guidance from accomplished professionals in their chosen fields.