The Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), Umudike branch, Abia State, has urged Nigerian female students to embrace the vast opportunities in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to advance their academic careers and boost their self-esteem.
Prof. Mabel Ifeoma Onwuka
Speaking during an event marking the 2025 International Day for Girls in ICT at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), recently, the branch Coordinator, Prof. Mabel Ifeoma Onwuka, emphasized the transformative power of ICT. She encouraged students to not only use technology to aid their studies but also to acquire skills that foster confidence and self-reliance.
Dr. Ngozi Achi
Prof. Onwuka, who also serves as Director of the Centre for Gender, Youth, and Child Development (CGYCD) at MOUAU, described this year’s theme, “Utilizing the Opportunities in ICT,” as timely. She urged young women to leverage social media and digital tools for personal growth and leadership development across various sectors.
Dr. Ogechi Obiozor
Delivering a goodwill message, the Executive Director and CEO of the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), Umudike, Prof. Chiedozie Egesi, represented by Dr. Ann Nkeiru Kanu, encouraged students to network with like-minded peers and enroll in ICT courses to diversify their skillsets. He described ICT as a “goldmine” that remains underutilized in Nigeria and other developing countries.
Similarly, Dr. Ngozi Achi, Financial Secretary of OWSD Umudike, advised students not to be discouraged by the nation’s current economic challenges. She highlighted that starting small with ICT ventures could eventually lead to global recognition.
Guest speaker and Vice President of the Students’ Union Government (SUG), Miss Oka Hadassah Adaoma, urged her fellow students to avoid the negative use of social media. She encouraged them to use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to build personal brands and promote creative skills such as cooking and fashion, demonstrating the synergy between ICT and creativity.
Prof. O.M. Obike
Adding her voice, Prof. O.M. Obike, Treasurer of OWSD Umudike and Chairperson of the event’s Organizing Committee, stressed the necessity of ICT integration across all fields of study. She advised students to strive for ICT proficiency, noting the accessibility of online courses in areas such as cybersecurity, data science, and software development.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Ogechi Obiozor, Public Relations Officer of OWSD Umudike, emphasized the importance of multiple income streams in today’s economy. She pointed out that digital skills can provide versatile opportunities across industries, encouraging students to seize these possibilities.
Dr. Obiozor also commended Prof. Onwuka for her relentless commitment to empowering women and girls in science and technology.
The event featured an interactive session and mentoring opportunities, inspiring the young participants to take bold steps toward a future enriched by ICT.
