Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) has lamented that despite significant strides in higher education, women remain underrepresented in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields worldwide.
The Coordinator, OWSD Umudike branch, Prof. Mabel Ifeoma Onwuka who stated this recently during the 2025 International Day of Women, Girls In Science at Awom na Ebo Secondary School, Amawom Oboro, Ikwuano Local Government Area (LGA), Abia State, identified societal stereotypes, limited access to education, and lack of mentorship opportunities among others as factors contributing to the negative trend.
The DVC Administration, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike (MOUAU), Prof. Ursula Akanwa (Left) and the Coordinator, OWSD Umudike Branch, Prof. Mabel Ifeoma Onwuka (Right) during the event recently.
The Professor of Soil Science, also congratulated women and girls in science, adding that despite these challenges, they have continue to break boundaries; paving the way for future generations.
Speaking on the theme: “Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science”, she emphasized the importance of amplifying the voices of women in STEM.
She highlighted the achievements of women and girls in scientific fields while advocating for gender equality in STEM education and careers.
In her remark, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (DVC), Administration, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike (MOUAU), Prof. Ursula Akanwa, urged the girls to shun distractions and remain focused on the chosen field of science, adding that nothing can stop them if they make up their minds.
Prof. Akanwa also encouraged them to take up challenges, revealing that the problem with this generation is that they want easy life.
She called on government at all levels to prioritize girl-child science education, noting that it will close the gender gap in STEM careers.
Contributing, the Financial Secretary of the group, Dr. Ngozi Achi, explained that OWSD exists to empower women and girls to excel in their chosen STEM careers.
Dr. Achi said that the gap is more pronounced in engineering, computer science, and physics, where female representation remains critically low, insisting that the inclusion of women in STEM is not just about equity; it’s about progress.
She maintained that women’s contributions in STEM have led to groundbreaking discoveries, especially in designing AI systems, leading space missions, and developing sustainable technologies.
Meanwhile, a member of the group, Dr. Blessing Offia-Olua, has called for more resilience among the girls, explaining that there is no cheap success anywhere.
She said that empowering young girls and women through mentorship, education, and career development opportunities is essential to breaking the barrier gap.
Another member of the group, Dr. Jane Nwaekpe, shared her life story with students, encouraging them to remain resolute in the chosen field of science.
She narrated the challenges she faced while growing up as a young girl, navigated and emerged a proud woman in science.
In her vote of thanks, the Principal, Awom Na Ebo Senior Secondary Technical, Amawom Oboro, Mrs. Ann Anyaku Oti, thanked OWSD Umudike chapter for availing such opportunity to them, assuring them that they would use everything at their disposal to encourage the STEM careers among girls in the institution.
Highpoints of the event was presentation of books to the girls/school and the grouping of the girls to enhance interactions and mentorship.
Other speakers include: Dr. Patricia Ukegbu, Dr. Florence Nse-Nelson, Dr. Ann Kanu, Dr. Edith Nzem, and Mrs. Obigaeri Chimaraoke, Dr. Uchechi Bliss Onyedikachi, Dr. Pearl Amadi, Mrs. Kolawole Oyekunbi, Dr. Sussan Ijeoma Ezeh, Mrs. Chinyere Mgbeahuru, Dr. Flora Murka, and Dr. Mary Sandas.
