The Women in Chemistry and Chemical Society of Nigeria, Lagos Chapter, has called for more women’s participation in science.
During the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry 2024 Global Women’s Breakfast at the University of Lagos, titled, ‘Catalysing diversity in science,’ they lamented the under-representation of women in science.
Guest speaker, Prof. Tolulope Fasina of the Department of Chemistry, UNILAG, who spoke on the theme explained that embracing diversity in science was not only about representation but also about driving innovation, excellence, and equity, saying that catalysing diversity in science was not a goal but a journey that required collective commitment and action.
She said diversity in science involved engaging people of different genders, ethnicities, sexual orientations, perspectives, backgrounds, areas of expertise, religions, cultures, etc. to participate in science.
“Over the years we have seen that women and girls have been the underrepresented group in science. The aim of this gathering is for us to see how we can get them on board and to help people know that diversity brings scientific excellence. Cultivating collaborative and inclusive scientific environments can catalyse change, advance knowledge, and tackle the complex challenges facing society today. It is only science that moves a nation forward. We need to move ourselves forward as a nation. All these Western societies advance because of science. We also need to embrace everybody and get everybody on board. If somebody carries research that does not represent you as an individual, that result will not affect you. But if somebody from your background as a Nigerian or African is involved, somebody from my background is involved, somebody from all diverse backgrounds in Nigeria is involved, that result represents everybody and collectively we can all move forward with it.”
Another speaker, Mr Soji Megbowon, who spoke on ‘Leveraging technology and case studies pedagogies for inclusive learning,’ shared his experience as a science professional and teacher who empowers learners in computer science at the grassroots.
He, thereby, advised the Nigerian government, to “do more for teachers in the area of capacity development, exposing teachers to necessary tools that are necessary to raising young people who will become job creators in future. When we build a workforce of highly skilled teachers we will be able to raise young transitional leaders who will become job creators.”
Coordinator, CSN-LAGOS WIC, Dr Iyabo Phillips, advised women chemists to bring up ideas for interactions for self-development and should seek more exposure to expand their horizon of knowledge.
Phillips said, “Science is diverse, it is the foundation and justification for all subjects Commercial, Art, and others.
“Research is the fulcrum of development globally. The research team should involve different experts from different fields to enable diverse perceptions and allow for more robust outcomes.
“Diversity gives room for robustness. Hence, we, as Chemists should seek grants to enable more extensive studies. LASRIC is open to all with viable projects, possibly with follow-on funding for commercialisation if required.”
Chair, CSN-Lagos Chapter, Dr Seun Popoola, who gave the vote of thanks appreciated the participants and called for more interactions and partnerships in science among female chemists.
