Rev. Otu to Stem The Lack of Girls In Sciences

Emmanuel Alfred

The Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Girls project was flagged off on September 19, 2023 by the Office of the Wife of the Governor of Cross River State, in partnership with Guru Innovation Hub and other esteemed collaborators.

The project, which is christened “the Rev. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu STEM Project” is the fulfilling of the State’s commitment to advancing education in the sciences amongst young girls and fostering innovation and technological progress.

This initiative which recognizes the tremendous contributions girls can make in shaping society in the area of innovation and problem solving aims to provide them with the necessary support, opportunities, and mentorship to thrive in STEM-related careers.

At the flag-off ceremony, the Wife of the Governor of Cross River State, Rev. Mrs Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, who was duly represented by the Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr Justin Beshel, expressed her deep commitment to empowering girls and leveraging the transformative power of STEM education.

She applauded the collaborative efforts of Guru Innovation Hub and other partners in making this project a reality, hailing their dedication and collective vision for a brighter future.

She said: “In today’s rapidly changing world, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, collectively known as STEM have become the driving forces of progress.
These fields hold the keys to innovation, development, and prosperity. It is our responsibility to ensure that our young people are not left behind but are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in STEM.”

“As part of our ‘People First Agenda’, my husband and I aim to create an inclusive ecosystem where girls can dream big and pursue their passion in STEM without hesitation.
By investing in their education and empowerment, we are investing in the future of our state, a future that will be defined by innovation, progress, and equal opportunities for all.”

Also, speaking at the event, the Comissioner for Youth development, Odum Ukam, lauded Rev. Otu for the initiative, saying it’s the first of its kind and would definitely improve then innovations recorded in the state in the near future.

He added that gone are the days when girls were relegated to the kitchen, and the innovation would ensure that not only would girls be educated, but they would also be creators of different technologies.

Speaking, a partner of the Guru Innovation Hub, Mr Oku Oku emphasized the importance of equal opportunities in STEM education. He highlighted the need to break down barriers and stereotypes that hinder girls from pursuing STEM disciplines, encouraging all stakeholders to rally behind this noble cause.

The Vice Chancellor of UNICROSS, represented by the DVC Administration, Prof. Ekeng Ekefre, while lauding the initiative, opined that this is the best he has seen organised for girls so far and pleaded that females in the rural areas be carried along in the scheme of things.

The event also had in attendance, the Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Agnes Atsu, Chairman of Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Mr Edwin Okon, and a host of other dignitaries.

Highlights of the event were project presentations, poems, and song renditions by beneficiaries.

The project is expected to span for five weeks to make a lasting impact on the lives of countless girls in Cross River State, creating a ripple effect that will extend far beyond the boundaries of education.