A new initiative aimed at bridging the gender gap in science and technology was launched at Dominican University, Ibadan, drawing educators, government officials and professionals who urged young women to pursue careers in STEM fields with confidence and purpose.

Delivering the keynote address at the launch of the Girls in Science and Technology Initiative, a Professor of Computer Science at the University of Ibadan, Oluseyi Osunade, noted that despite existing programmes encouraging female participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, many girls remain disconnected from available opportunities. He urged them to channel their abilities into science and technology, describing both fields as critical pathways to innovation, leadership and national development.

"Girls make a difference in society and within the family. When their creativity, resilience and ability to multitask are channelled into science and technology, the results can be transformative," he stated.

The convener of the initiative, Dr Kehinde Deji Akinpelu, described the programme as one designed to raise godly, competent and globally competitive young women equipped for science and technology related fields. She said the initiative would focus on mentorship, capacity building, leadership development and character formation. "We want to nurture young women who can transform their ideas and academic projects into patents, start ups and sustainable enterprises," she noted.

The Vice Chancellor of Dominican University, Prof. Jacinta Opara, described the initiative as a transformative platform for empowering young women to build confidence in STEM careers. "The world needs more women developing solutions, generating ideas and leading innovations that will shape the future. Never allow anyone to define your limits," she told participants.

The Permanent Secretary of the Oyo State Bureau of Digital Innovation and ICT, Roheemat Adabanija, raised concern over the low level of female participation in STEM globally, disclosing that women account for only 25% of the STEM population. She called for sustained mentorship, support and incentives to attract more girls into the sector.

The Oyo State Coordinator of Nigeria Women in Information Technology, Samotu Adejoke, urged participants to set clear goals and seek mentorship, while the Chairman of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, Yemisi Abidoye, encouraged continuous learning regardless of background. The Head of Department of Computer Science at Lead City University, Dr Bolanle Oyekunle, advised students to remain committed to their ambitions and avoid distractions capable of derailing their future.