The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) has urged stakeholders to engage with policymakers towards making Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education accessible to the girl-child at an early age.

APWEN President, Dr Adebisi Osim, highlighted this at a webinar to mark the International Day of Women in Engineering (INWED) organised by the association. INWED celebrates women’s achievements and leadership in engineering and highlights underrepresentation of women in STEM fields.

She advised the government and industry leaders to support gender-responsive STEM policies, mentorship programmes and fund women-led engineering innovations to mitigate barriers.

Osim pointed out that the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) science report indicated that only 28 per cent of the world’s engineering graduates are women, while even fewer rise to leadership roles. She noted that in Nigeria, the figure is lower with just 15 per cent of registered engineers, who are women, according to Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).

She said, “The future of engineering is digital. We must equip women engineers with Artificial Intelligence, automation, and data analytics skills. According to the World Economic Forum, the jobs of tomorrow in engineering will demand hybrid skills, and women must not be left behind.

“Leadership should not come at the cost of well being. APWEN is exploring flexible work programs and wellness initiatives for our members because we believe that a supported woman leads better.”

Country Manager, Halliburton Norway, Erika Tovar, who spoke on the importance of gender equality in STEM fields, said women represent only 35 per cent of STEM graduates.

She emphasised the need for early exposure to STEM careers through workshops, school visits, and mentoring, as well as advocated increased visibility of women in STEM.

A past president of APWEN, Valerie Agberagba, stated the need for intentional action to increase women’s leadership in engineering, highlighting the importance of data-driven strategies and setting measurable targets.

She challenged young and established engineers to mentor and sponsor women into leadership positions. Valerie also stressed the importance of visibility and collaboration with men to advance gender equality in engineering.