UNILAG DVC Calls Women to Engage More in Sciences

Deputy Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos, Prof. Folashade Ogunsola, has asked for more women engagements in driving the science of green energy.

While speaking at a grand finale of a science essay competition at UNILAG organised by the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World to celebrate the International Day for Women and Girls in Science, the DVC stated that the creativity that women bring to bear in science could not be ignored by a country that is keen on rapid development.

At the event was themed: ‘Investment in Women and Girls in Science for Inclusive Green Growth: a Necessity for Nigeria’, Ogunsola said, “There is a need to have more women driving the science and heeding the conversion to green energy. The theme is very apt especially in a country that is slowly recognising that you cannot fly with one of your wings.

“The perspective of creativity and pragmatism that women bring to bear in science cannot be ignored by a country that is interested in developing rapidly and taking a significant pace amongst the committee of nations in the 21st century.”

Also, the Chairman, Local Organising Committee, Dr Kehinde Kemabonta, called on the government and other stakeholders in science to enhance science by providing up-to-date equipment to support the girl child’s dream of becoming a scientist.

“We find out that anytime we travel out of the country and we are doing some work, we do far better than we do here in Nigeria because they have all the equipment. So, we should bring all the equipment here to encourage women. I want us as a nation to promote science and to encourage the girls in science.

“My message is that it’s good to be a scientist and we should promote the girls in science as well as the women in science. The government and the president should see the need to promote science, bring up funds in the universities for research work,” Kemabonta added.

President of OWSD, Lagos Branch, Prof. Joy Okpuzor, revealed that 2,500 school girls took part in the science essay competition and 10 students were shortlisted.