Nowadays, girls are continually encouraged to follow their dreams and study, like their male counterparts, to the highest level of their abilities. Gender is gradually becoming an issue. However, this has not helped them as figures show that, during orientation, only 12% of female tilting in the STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
The notion that technology, and the class that makes up STEM, is meant for men still lingering around. Paradoxically, STEM is meant for everyone who is passionate about it, and its impact cuts across a wide range of fields, including women populated and appealing fields. Like tourism, health, and fashion design.
As the African proverb goes, "Teach them while they are young," it is essential that these girls are encouraged to take engineering while they are relatively young. Preferably between the ages of 10-14 and do not wait until they are in colleges or universities, as is the case. Most of them will lose their orientation if they have to wait until they are in college.
Last year, as part of the leadership program, I visited St Anne's, a girl's school. Our focus and discussion centered on different issues impacting girls and their livelihoods. We also took the opportunity to direct them through career opportunities and, encouragingly, a few of these girls were actually interested in engineering courses.
Relating to this, I received a call yesterday from the director of this girls ' school to invite me to a presentation by one of the girls who showed interest in mechanical engineering and built a Solar Powered Car. She has changed the narrative and is shifting the paradigm to women empowerment, inspiring peers here through her success story. Her dream is to continue in vocational college after her secondary school, and it is our responsibility as individuals, organizations, governments, and experts to see her through. Who knows, she could be the Next Elon Musk of Tesla or Henry Ford of Ford Cars in the making.
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