The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Universal Basic Education (UBE) has endorsed the Girls Yielding Science and Technology (GYST) 2.0, aimed at empowering girl students in science and technology.

GYST 2.0, an initiative of the Dbegotin Educational Foundation, is a programme aimed at improving skills and bridging the gap in female participation in science and engineering.

Speaking at the launch of the initiative on Friday in Abuja, FCT UBE Deputy Director in charge of placements and gender, Dr Safiya Tamanuwa who regretted that the female child have been discouraged from venturing into Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) over the years, stressed the need to encourage them to pick up a carrier in STEM.

“Over the years STEM has always been seen as a thing of men. When you mention women, they always say no, the girl child cannot go into or venture into such things, probably because it is difficult.

“But we are glad that now, with the sensitization and with the new approach that the Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs) are coming in to help in the schools, to collaborate with the school, to add their voice to whatever the school is doing to show these girls that sky is not even their limit when they venture into science and technology, which was popularly known as STEM.”

She called for more support from civil society organisations and NGOs, noting that there is more to do to encourage girls in science and technology.

Speaking, the founder and executive director of the foundation, Jeremiah Oseni disclosed that GYST was born out of a simple yet powerful idea that when girls are given the right opportunities, there is no limit to what they can achieve.

According to Oseni, during the first edition of GYST, the body witnessed how empowerment and mentorship transformed the lives of young STEM enthusiasts, adding that female students double up in their science subjects because they were more confident, and better equipped, to become who they want to be.

“We watched them stand tall, think boldly, and dream. Some of them are here today, and I am so proud, knowing they are set to become outstanding women in society.

“Today, we are launching GYST 2.0 with renewed energy. Last year, our footprints cut across five schools within the FCT. But guess what? This year, GYST is projecting to four states in Nigeria. From Niger, to Jos, Kogi and Kwara, GYST 2.0 will connect over 100 female students in Nigeria to STEM projects, workshops, conferences, practical learning, mentorship, and opportunities.

“Today’s launch is therefore a celebration of dreams and a reaffirmation of our commitment to creating an ecosystem where no girl is left behind.

We are grateful to everyone who has supported this vision so far, our partners, team members, volunteers, school leaders, parents and fellow CSOs. Most of all, we are inspired by the girls, the reason we are here, the future we are investing in.”