Engineers seek gender equality, support for STEM in building industry
ENGINEERS have reiterated the need for gender equality and support for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics ( STEM) / Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics ( STEAM) courses as measures to improve women representation in the building industry.
They called for an increase in scholarships and grants schemes to bring women into STEM/ STEAM departments, prevent discrimination and sexism against female students, and improve retention rates. They also want employers to identify and address discrimination in their hiring practices, so they can produce a diverse workplace that promotes greater happiness and productivity among their employees.
The engineers noted that mentorship and role models are essential in inspiring the next generation of women engineers, architects, and other construction professionals to thrive in a sector that is about 80 per cent male- dominated.
A professor of technology at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile- Ife, Kehinde Taiwo, who led the call at webinar entitled: “STEAMING Ahead: Women engineers advancing a sustainable environment”, organised by the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria ( APWEN), observed that empowering women is crucial to ensuring that their unique perspectives and talents are fully utilised in the industry.
She stated that women who have made significant contributions to the building industry are paving the way for future generations of professionals despite the challenges faced in the field of engineering, their resilience and determination have enabled them to overcome obstacles and succeed.
“Women engineers are breaking barriers and paving the way for a more inclusive infrastructure development industry. Their contributions bring fresh perspectives, improved team dynamics, and more sustainable solutions.
“As a society, we must continue to support and empower women in engineering, ensuring that the industry becomes truly diverse and reflective of our collective talents. Through their hard work and dedication, women engineers are reshaping the future of infrastructure development, shaping the built environment through engineering by driving change and innovation in the industry,” she said.
Taiwo urged support for teachers saddled with the duty of implementing STEAM courses. According to her, as the first access point to STEAM learning for many children, teachers need the knowledge to help foster 21st- century skills such as creativity, critical thinking, communication and collaboration.
She said that women face unique obstacles when it comes to attending school and working in STEM fields, adding that advantages of women in infrastructure development include diverse perspectives, improved communication, enhanced efficiency and creativity, effective collaboration, and improved problem- solving.