Group urges parents, students to embrace STEM education for sustainable future

In a proactive move toward shaping a sustainable future, Women in Energy Oil and Gas (WEOG) has called for the adoption of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education by parents, teachers, and students.

WEOG, a non-profit organisation, while emphasising the pivotal role of STEM disciplines in addressing the global challenges of tomorrow, noted that the adoption would cultivate a generation of innovative minds poised to contribute to a sustainable and technologically-advanced world.

Lagos Chapter Secretary of the International Forum for Women in Energy Oil and Gas, Lucy Onoriode Okeke, in her message to mark this year’s International Women’s Day at Victoria Island Secondary School in Lagos, said the theme of this year’s celebration represents the true essence of the push for gender equality, which is hinged on inspiring inclusion, as well as the slogan “Investing in Women, Accelerate Progress.”

She reiterated the need for female students to embrace STEM education, stressing that it goes beyond school subjects as it gives a skill set that governs the way we think and behave, adding that STEM education helps to solve the challenges the world faces today.

Besides, Okeke told the students that the theme holds profound significance and serves as a call to action, affirming that dedicating resources to their education, dreams and ambitions is not only beneficial for them but also an investment in the advancement of the society.

She said that they were not merely recipients of progress but active engines propelling it forward.

”I want to specifically address the young women who are considering or are already on the path of STEM careers. In these fields, you have the chance to not only contribute to groundbreaking advancements but also to challenge and redefine the narrative around women in STEM,’ she said.’

The chapter secretary, however, informed the students that the world needs their unique perspectives, innovative solutions, and their unwavering determination to tackle complex problems.

”Do not let anyone tell you that certain fields are off-limits based on gender. The doors to STEM are wide open for you, and your presence will only enrich these disciplines. As you embark on your educational journey, remember that setbacks are not roadblocks but stepping stones to success. Embrace challenges with resilience, and let every obstacle be an opportunity to learn, grow, and become even more formidable,” she said.

She noted that together, they could shatter stereotypes and preconceptions as their potential is boundless, and the pursuit of their passions knows no gender, adding that the world awaits the contributions of their intellect, creativity, and tenacity.

Okeke, therefore, called on other Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and stakeholders to commit to investing in the potential of every girl-child, which will help in fostering an environment where dreams are nurtured, and opportunities are abundant.