Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), yesterday, called on stakeholders in the society to prioritise investment in girl child development for more development in the country.

Chairman, Lagos State chapter of APWEN, Mrs Atinuke Owolabi, made the call at the 2023 international day of the Girl Child entitled: “Invest in Girls’ Rights: Our Leadership, Our Well-being”, organised by the Lagos chapter of APWEN.

The forum featured secondary schools representatives from various educational districts across Lagos, STEM activities such as paper circuit, air pressure water, cardboard car, panel session and group project challenge.

Owolabi said the society should encourage and support girls’ right to quality education and safe environment for growth.

She noted that the International Day of the Girl Child is an important day for the global community, serving as a powerful reminder of the need to invest in the rights, well-being and leadership of girls all around the world.

Atinuke emphasised the need to provide the girl child with the tools, support and opportunities they need to excel in STEM fields and take on leadership roles in various sectors.

“We must encourage and support every girl’s right to education, equal opportunities, and a safe environment, where they can grow and thrive. We believe the well-being and leadership of girls are not just a matter of rights; they are essential building blocks for a brighter future for all,” she said.

The National Chairman, Nigerian lnstitution of Mechanical Engineering, (NiMechE), Funmilade Akingbagbohun, implored the pupils to embrace engineering as a profession that solves societal problems across board.

Akingbagbohun challenged them to be realistic with goals, concentrate on studies, hardworking, focus and work with principles in achieving set goal.

Earlier, a past chairman of the chapter, Mrs Monsurah Alagbe, advised the girl child to be committed to her studies and know their responsibilities to the society.