ABUJA – Prof. Osita Okeke has called on the Federal Government to create an environment conducive for women scientist to actualise their potential and contribute to the nation development.
Okeke, a geophysics and professor emeritus of Enugu State University of Science and Technology, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Thursday.
The professor, who is consultant to the Ministry of Power, said the challenges of women in science sector had been cultural, social, family and lack of career opportunities.
He said in the past, access to higher education was limited to the girl-child, but in the recent time women now excel in science-related courses at the university levels.
“It is obvious that women scientists at the highest levels are increasing and the current situation of gender balancing is bringing out the best in them.
“With a vast talent base and youth population, we are now experiencing more women who have shown the zeal and are also committed to what they are doing.[eap_ad_2]
“As a country, we can now foresee a strong opportunity for building a strong base in Science and Technology sector,’’ he said.
Okeke, however, called for a special initiative to enhance the number of women scientists as well as retrain those already in the system through well structured schemes.
“The government should do all it could to invest in talented women scientists and technologists to accelerate the pace of country’s development.
“This will leverage their potential and knowledge in the development processes of the country.
He further called on Nigerian women scientist to focus their attention on entrepreneurship and develop young technocrats to exploit their full potential. (NAN)[eap_ad_3]