Following plans to ensure that female students develop interest on engineering, the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) has awarded Maryam Sani Zubairu of Government Girls Secondary School, Minna for emerging as the best female student in Science in Niger state public secondary schools.
The participants were tested on Mathematics, English, Physics, and Chemistry which made up the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects.
Zubairu came top in the written competition organized by APWEN for over 50 participants selected from schools across the state while Osioje Goodman of Government Day Secondary School Maikunkele and Ezenweta Anita of Government Girls Secondary School, Old Airport came second and third respectively.
Army Day Secondary School emerged as the best public secondary school in Science while Niger Teachers Professional Development Institute and Government Girls Secondary School, Old Airport came second and third respectively.
The Chairman of APWEN, Minna Chapter, Engineer Muibat Yahya explained that participants from 14 schools participated in the competition out of which five schools emerged for the final stage.
She explained that APWEN is determined to make female students interested in science despite the gender disparity and disinterest in science subjects.
“From what we have seen, we realize female students do not want to study engineering, they feel it is meant for the male gender. We are working to change the mindset of female students especially those in public secondary schools.”
Yahya urged the government to set up initiatives and incentives that would encourage female secondary school students to study science subjects and to ensure that every equipment and resources needed to teach sciences in the state public secondary schools are made available.
The APWEN President, Engineer Elizabeth Eterigho applauded the state APWEN for initiating the award saying that it is a celebration of the remarkable achievements, dedication, and unwavering determination displayed by the young female secondary school students.
According to her, in a world where the gender gap in STEM fields persists, the award symbolizes APWEN’s collective commitment to shattering glass ceilings, bridging disparities, and creating a future that is inclusive and equitable.
“The accomplishments of the talented female students we honor today exemplify the limitless potential that lies within each one of us, regardless of our gender.
“Today, we gather here not only to acknowledge the exceptional academic achievements of our talented female students but also to commend their courage to pursue their passion in engineering. Each one of these extraordinary individuals has shown resilience, intellectual prowess, and a commitment to excellence that is truly inspiring.”
Eterigho said that STEM disciplines have played a pivotal role in shaping the world by revolutionizing industries, pioneering groundbreaking innovations, and propelling the nation toward unimaginable possibilities.
She said APWEN inspires young girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) by sponsoring competitions and giving awards adding that by fostering an environment that encourages and supports the participation of women in STEM subjects, the association is creating a richer, more dynamic, and equitable world.
She then appreciated the teachers and mentors who have nurtured the students in studying science subjects stating that they are guiding lights who have tirelessly worked to create an environment where our female students can thrive and excel.
