IHS Nigeria and W.TEC Inspire Over 400 Girls Through STEM Engagement Programme

IHS Nigeria has partnered with the Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC) to empower more than 400 secondary school girls through a hands-on science and technology engagement programme held to mark the 2026 International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

The initiative brought together female students from Lagos City College Yaba and Surulere Senior High School, offering participants an immersive experience designed to spark interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

The programme featured interactive STEM demonstrations, quiz sessions, and a panel discussion with women professionals from IHS Nigeria working across various technical fields. Organisers said the activities were aimed at building confidence, expanding academic exposure, and encouraging the girls to consider careers in science and technology.

Delivering the keynote address, Victory Onafeko, Associate Director of Diesel Operations at IHS Nigeria, spoke on the theme *“From Vision to Impact: Redefining STEM by Closing the Gender Gap.”* She emphasised that bridging the gender divide in STEM is critical for sustainable development, noting that innovation flourishes when girls are given equal opportunities to learn and lead.

She encouraged the students to believe in their potential, adding that the future of science and technology depends on young girls who are prepared to step forward with confidence and creativity.

Founder of W.TEC, Mrs. Oreoluwa Somolu Lesi, described the partnership as a strong example of how collaboration between corporate organisations and civil society can drive meaningful educational impact. She explained that exposing girls to relatable female role models and practical STEM experiences within their school environment helps reshape perceptions about who belongs in technical fields.

According to her, such initiatives empower girls to see themselves not just as learners, but as future innovators and leaders.

With support from the Office of the Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary, Education District IV, alongside Lagos City College, both organisations expressed optimism that the 2026 celebration would further strengthen commitments to educational excellence, gender inclusion, and future-ready skills.

The organisers also recalled that in 2025, the programme was delivered as a national initiative, reaching 300 girls across Lagos, Kano, and Enugu — reinforcing their long-term goal of expanding access to STEM opportunities for young females across Nigeria.

Education stakeholders say initiatives like this are vital in addressing gender imbalance in science-related fields while equipping girls with the confidence and exposure needed to thrive in tomorrow’s workforce.