By Funmilola Gboteku/Olanrewaju Akojede
The Women Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to closing the gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) careers through targeted programmes and annual hackathon for secondary school girls.
W.TEC Founder, Mrs Oreoluwa Lesi, said this at the 2025 edition of the hackathon held at Wesley Secondary School, Yaba, to commemorate the International Day of the Girl-Child on Thursday in Lagos.
The theme of the event was: ” She Solves for Change”.
“We have worked with over 52,000 girls, women, boys, and teachers through our various programmes. We also engage young people with developmental disabilities such as Down Syndrome and autism, introducing them to technology skills,” she said.
Lesi noted that 69 per cent of the girls who attended W.TEC programmes were inspired to pursue STEM careers, with 25 per cent already studying STEM-related courses in the universities.
She said the centre also supports participants to develop their projects beyond the competition stage.
“We mentor and help them transform their innovations into real-life products or services that can generate income,” she said.
Also speaking, W.TEC Advisory Board Member, Mr Tobi Durojaye, lauded the participants for their creativity and problem-solving mindset.
“These students are demonstrating that Nigerian youths can build globally competitive solutions. Initiatives like this deserve more support,” he said.
One of the winning students, Miss Aisha Tasiu of Lagos City Senior College, said her team’s Open Book Library project was designed to encourage reading habits among students.
Also, Miss Favour Solomon, one of the participants, added that participating in W.TEC’s STEM camp gave her the confidence to consider a career in web development.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Hackathon provided young girls with practical experience in designing technology-driven solutions, helping them develop real-world skills and confidence.
The event was in partnership with Oracle Academy.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma
