International Day of Women and Girls in Science: Nigeria’s Progress and Challenges
February 11th marks the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a global initiative by the United Nations (UN) to promote full and equal access to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. The goal is to empower women and girls in science, ensure gender equality and foster inclusive, sustainable development.
However, despite global progress, a gender gap persists—and Nigeria is no exception. Women remain underrepresented in healthcare, engineering, technology, and scientific research, limiting their ability to contribute fully to national growth and healthcare advancements.
EOON Care and Women in Science
At EOON Care, we recognise science and healthcare's vital role in improving lives, especially in elder care. Many of the breakthroughs in geriatric care, medicine, and technology-driven healthcare solutions are pioneered by women in STEM. By encouraging more women and girls to pursue careers in healthcare and science, we ensure that elderly care in Nigeria and beyond benefits from innovation and expertise.
Through initiatives that promote women in medical research, elderly care technology, and healthcare innovation, EOON Care aligns with the vision of empowering women in science to build healthier, longer lives for all generations.
The Global Picture: The Gender Gap in STEM
Despite increased awareness, women remain underrepresented in STEM fields worldwide:
π¬ Only 33.3% of researchers globally are women.
π€ Just 22% of AI professionals are female.
π» Only 28% of engineering and 40% of computer science graduates are women.
π A mere 12% of National Science Academy members are women.
Women in STEM are crucial for advancing healthcare, environmental science, technology, and medical research—essential for improving elder care services.
(Source: UNESCO)
The Nigerian Reality: Women in Science and Healthcare
In Nigeria, the underrepresentation of women in STEM fields reflects global trends, and healthcare is no exception. Many challenges exist:
π§ Cultural stereotypes discourage girls from studying science.
π« Limited access to quality STEM education affects opportunities.
π° Economic barriers prevent many young women from pursuing medical and scientific careers.
However, progress is being made with various initiatives that support women and girls in STEM.
Nigerian Initiatives Supporting Women in Science
Several organisations and institutions in Nigeria are actively working to close the gender gap in STEM:
1️⃣ Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC)
π Founded in 2008, W.TEC provides technology education, mentorship, and awareness programs to encourage more girls to enter the tech field.
2️⃣ Landmark University Centre for Research, Innovation, and Discoveries (LUCRID)
π Works in line with SDG5 (Gender Equality) and hosts motivational talks for female students interested in science.
3️⃣ Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) – UNILAG Branch
π Encourages enterprise-driven STEM education and runs STEM competitions for young girls.
Building a Future of Women in Science and Healthcare
To close the gender gap in STEM in Nigeria, we must prioritize strategic action:
✅ Educational Reforms – Encourage STEM learning from an early age with gender-inclusive curricula.
✅ Mentorship Programs – Create mentorship opportunities connecting young girls with women in healthcare and science.
✅ Policy Interventions – Strengthen policies that support gender equality in education and STEM careers.
✅ Public Awareness Campaigns – Challenge cultural stereotypes and promote positive female role models in science.
Call to Action: How You Can Support Women in Science
π Celebrate and amplify the achievements of women in science and healthcare!
π©π¬ Mentor and support young girls interested in STEM fields.
π₯ Encourage careers in healthcare and elder care innovation—where science meets compassion.
π’ Advocate for policies that promote equal opportunities for women in STEM.
π At EOON Care, we believe in the power of science to improve lives—especially for the elderly. By empowering women in STEM, we create a healthier future for everyone.
π’ Join the movement! Let’s inspire more Nigerian women to lead in science, healthcare, and elder care.
EOON Care: Bridging Science, Healthcare, and Community
EOON Care is committed to advancing elder care through medical science and innovation. From scientific research in geriatrics to healthcare technology, we ensure that Nigeria’s elderly receive the best care possible.
π Explore our elder care resources: EOON Care Resource Guide
π‘ Together, we can drive change.
π Contact EOON Care Today!
π Nigeria Office: +234 816 7929 521
π§ Email: info@eooncare.com
π Website: www.eooncare.com
References
- LUCRID (2023): Landmark Commemorates International Day of Women and Girls in Science – Read more
- United Nations (2025): International Day of Women and Girls in Science – Visit UN Website
- University of Lagos (2023): OWSD UNILAG promotes STEM for Women – Learn more
π’ Hashtags
#WomenInScience #GirlsInSTEM #NigeriaSTEM #GenderEquality #ElderCareInnovation #HealthcareForAll #STEMForWomen #EOONCare
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