Why More Girls Should Take Up STEM – NCC Boss

The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Danbatta, has charged young girls to show keen interest in information and communication t as well as science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM.)

Danbatta made the call on the occasion of the International Girls in ICT Day organized by Elbativeni Foundation/Elbativeni Impressions and Consulting Abuja.

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The EVC who was represented at the occasion by the head of ICT, told the over 100 school girls drawn from different schools in the Federal Capital Territory that there have a world of opportunity before them and they should take advantage of it.

“You are lucky to belong to this generation. You are also lucky to be here today. Our lives have been changed because of ICT and STEM, which I want you to take advantage of. Show interest in STEM because it offers you endless possibilities,” the NCC boss stated.

He pledged the commitment of the NCC to support such initiatives and called on parents to encourage their girl-child to take up careers in STEM.

Speaking also, the Charge de Affairs, Embassy of Ecuador, Mr. Jaime Campas, commended the organisers for the event and said that with more such initiatives, Nigeria stands a good chance of bridging the digital gap.

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Campas was confident that with early introduction to the sciences and maths, the girl-child and children generally are equipped to develop interest in related careers and contribute to national development.

Speaking earlier, the CEO of Elbativeni, Ms. Destiny Obiakoeze, said the event is an initiative of the International Telecommunications Union; backed by all ITU Member Stateswhich aims to create a global environment that empowers and encourages girls and young women to consider careers in the growing field of ICTs, enabling both girls and technology companies to reap the benefits of greater female participation in the ICT sector.

Obiakoeze told our correspondent after the programme that “we had such an amazing outing. This is our first girl-child project and we are glad that every girl left there inspired. Their verbal testimonials are so encouraging we cannot but feel blessed to be able to touch these lives.

“More than 180 girls were taught today that there is space for them in ICT and STEM and that they can thrive if they are willing to take the plunge in the sector. We are glad to add our voice in the global voices for more female participation in ICT and we are glad to say that we are playing a part in the development of girls and women to be better placed, economically empowered and driven to become better.”

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