By Tina George, Minna
ASHENEWS reports that the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) has disclosed that the fear of mathematics considered as a difficult subject, lack of scientific equipment for practical experiments, inadequate science subjects teachers, and lack of guidance and counseling, are major reasons why female students, especially in Nigeria shy away from science subjects.
The Association is working towards improving the interest of female students in public secondary schools, and the study of science subjects and excelling in them.
To ensure female students’ interest in this, APWEN in Niger state, organized a competition for female students in public secondary schools across the state to test their knowledge of science subjects, including Mathematics, English, physics, and Chemistry, which make up the STEM field.
According to the state chairman, Engr. Muibat Yahya, the competition is part of APWEN’S initiative in encouraging girls to study science and bridge the gap between female engineers across the nation.
“We discover that the female student do not want to study engineering and the top response to our queries is that they look at sciences as a course for the males.
“This is why we have taken it upon ourselves to go around public secondary schools to change this narrative and the mindset of these girls encouraging them that science and engineering is not only for the male gender. We tell them that it is about their potential, commitment, and skills.”
Yahya lamented that the percentage of female students studying sciences in public secondary schools is still very low, while calling on the government to pay more attention to the science sector of schools, especially in providing adequate science subjects teachers and science equipment for practical.
“This is the reason for the competition. Because the morale is very low and they are not being encouraged as nobody gives them the pedestal to showcase their skills and talent. When there is competition, the government gives laudable concentration to the private schools and leaves the public schools uncared for. These students need to compete among their peers and be rewarded.”
She also called on organizations and individuals to pitch towards encouraging female students in public secondary schools to study sciences.
During the competition, Maryam Sani Zubairu of Government Girls Secondary School, old Airport Minna, emerged as the best female student in Science in Niger state public secondary schools.
Zubairu came top in the written competition organized by APWEN for over 50 participants, who were selected from schools across the state.
Osioje Goodman of Government Day Secondary School, Maikunkele and Ezenweta Anita of Government Girls Secondary School, Old Airport came second and third, respectively.
The Army Day Secondary School emerged 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.
Yahya explained that students from 14 schools participated in the competition out of which five schools emerged for the final stage.
The APWEN President, Engr. Elizabeth Eterigho applauded its state chapter 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.
The best female science student, Zubairu explained that some of the challenges faced by science students in public secondary schools include lack of science teachers and inadequate laboratory equipment.
She encouraged other female students to study hard and do away with distractions like mobile phones and social media so that they can excel in their studies.
The Chemistry teacher from the Government Girls Secondary School, Old Airport Minna, Mohammed Shehu, who won the best science teacher award, said to boost the interest of female students in science subjects, he organizes free practical classes for them.
“I conduct free chemistry practical experiment classes every Saturday for the students to motivate them in taking up science subjects and sustaining their interest in these subjects. I also counsel them during these practical sessions.”
Shehu appealed to the government to declare a state of emergency on the lack of instructional materials in public secondary schools, adding that it would enhance the work of the teachers if these materials are available.
“Without these instructional materials, it would just be like one step forward and two steps backward and the government will not be able to achieve its goal in the education sector.”
