The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, on Tuesday said Nigeria’s position in the global technology stage is dependent on women’s empowerment and participation in the sector.
Speaking at the Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer Delta 2 Programme award ceremony in Abuja, Nnaji said equipping the girl child at a tender stage citing “JSS1 and JSS2” as the primary targets would make them sorted at the global stage.
Citing women’s participation in politics, he said empowering women in fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), would align with the president’s directive to foster talent development among young girls.
He said, “Our approach focuses on reaching them at a young age. You can imagine, we’re talking about JSS1 and JSS2 students doing these fantastic projects.
“This is basic science, and that’s what we mean—when you teach them the sciences, the technology will follow. By nurturing these talents early, we can transform Nigeria by the time they come of age.
“It’s impressive to see them generating methane using petrol mixed with water and camphor. Isn’t that fantastic? These young individuals have such innovative mindsets.
“In politics, we often say that when we have resources to support families, we prioritise women over men, We want more women involved in STEM fields.
“We’ve always encouraged women to engage in STEM fields. In our society, we value women highly. We recognise that they are serious-minded individuals, and we commend their contributions.”
The Coordinating Director of Planning and Business Development, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) Dr. Nonyem Onyechi, stressed the importance of linking research with industry to drive technological development.
Optimistic about the Delta 2 programme potential, Onyechi assured that the program would bridge the gender gap in science and technology.
She said, “The answer lies in the lack of a link between our research institutes and industry needs. As long as that linkage is absent, we cannot effectively use technology to develop our country.”
