By Cleopatra Eki
The Association for Childhood Education Practitioners (ACEP) has called for greater participation of girls and women in science and artificial intelligence (AI) to bridge the gender gap in these fields.
At the International Women and Girls in Science and International Day of Education celebration at SUBEB Hall, Maryland, Lagos, ACEP National President Hajia Islamiyat Olaitan Oshodi emphasized the importance of AI and science education. The event, themed “Unpacking STEM Careers – Her Voice in Science,” highlighted how technology opens new career opportunities beyond traditional roles.
Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hon. Tolani Jamiu Alli-Balogun, represented by Mrs. Adewale-Wahab, encouraged girls to pursue science and AI, stressing that they are not limited by gender roles. Professor Ngozi Okafor of the University of Lagos, in her talk “Unpacking STEM Careers: The Power of Diversity in Shaping the Future,” called for an inclusive society where women have equal opportunities in STEM. She cited Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, late Chief Grace Alele-Williams, and Chimamanda Adichie as examples of women who have broken barriers.
Emeritus Professor Pai Obanya, in his keynote address “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation,” noted that women make up only 28% of the global STEM workforce and 24% in core STEM roles, urging Nigeria to bridge the gap.
SpeakingFingers Network Founder, Treasures Uchegbu, praised Nigerian girls for their resilience in STEM and reaffirmed her commitment to mentorship and advocacy, calling on governments, private sector organizations, and civil society to support women’s participation in science and AI.
Event Highlights
Robotics demonstration by girls from Al Hakeem International School, Lagos: Talks on AI technology by students: Exhibitions of artworks and environmental projects: Sign language presentations by special school pupils: Backpacks and books distributed courtesy of ACEP.
Dignitaries included Prof. U.M.O Ivowi, Oba Dr. Olukunmi Olusesan Akingbola, Chief Tunde Ogunsola, Dr. Lookman Alaka, and Dr. Llyods Herfelty. ACEP appreciated partnerships with LEARN.
Others are Unity Network International, Alphazeta UNESCO, Lagos State Government, UN, and SpeakingFingers Network.
The event reinforced ACEP’s commitment to empowering women in STEM and AI, ensuring equal opportunities for girls and women in science and technology.
