The Consulate General of the United States of America in Nigeria, Mr. John Bray has challenged girls in Nigeria to be more involved in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics-related fields in higher education.
This, Bray believes will help the girls who are sometimes shy away from these related fields to be more innovative and come up with solution that are capable of solving societal challenges.
“You must be confident in your intelligence and demonstrate the determination and drive to succeed in any career path that you choose. Challenge yourselves, learn more about successful women in STEM fields, and draw inspiration from them,” Bray said in a remark at the International Day of Women and Girls in Science Hidden Figures’ screening at the Silverbird Cinema on Monday in Lagos.
He admitted that though there are barriers, the U.S. government is convinced that when barriers to the participation of women and girls in the STEM fields are removed, women will do better, families will do better, countries will do better and the world does better. “Whether at home or abroad, promoting women in the STEM fields is a priority of the U.S. government,” he disclosed.
He said the United States has invested millions of dollars to advance gender equality across sub-Saharan Africa, through activities that promote political and economic opportunities for women, access to health and education services, and prevent or respond to gender-based violence.
Applauding the girls, who attended the screening of the Science Hidden Figures, Bray explained that today’s achievement in STEM-related fields is a key building block for any country’s economic success.