The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Awka Chapter has organized a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, STEM quiz competition for SS2 female students in government Secondary Schools in Anambra state.
The competition, held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University and titled, ‘Who Wants to Be an Engineer?’ attracted three selected schools in Awka South local government area of the state who were quizzed on Mathematics, Biology, Physics, Chemistry and Basic Engineering Knowledge.
“Who Wants to Be an Engineer?” a STEM Quiz Competition, is an initiative focused on female students in state government-owned secondary schools within Anambra state.
At the end of the exercise, Community Secondary School, Amansea emerged top with 14 points, while Nneoma Community Secondary School, Nibo and Community Secondary School, Mbaukwu came second and third positions with 13 and 12 points respectively.
The quiz master, Engr Victor Mbachu, who announced the results, said the school that won the first position was presented with the cash prize of N80,000, while the second and third positions received cash sums of N50,000 and N40,000 respectively.
The Awka Chapter Chairman, Engr Dr Ifeyinwa Dimson said the competition organized in honor of the late past president, Engr Funmilola Ojelade was targeted at changing negative narratives of few women in the engineering field despite its impact in shaping every aspect of the world.
She said, “We stand at a time when science, technology, and engineering are shaping every aspect of our world. Yet, the engineering field still has too few women.
“This competition exists to change that narrative. Our goal is simple: to inspire our young girls to see themselves as problem-solvers, innovators, and future engineers for Anambra State and Nigeria at large.
“To our contestants, you are already winners for stepping forward. Mathematics, Basic Science, and Technology will test more than your memory.
“They will test your courage, your teamwork, and your ability to think under pressure. Compete fairly, support one another, and remember that every question you attempt is one step closer to confidence in STEM.”
Dimson appreciated Ministry of Education and stakeholders for their support, as well as the Faculty of Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, for providing the venue for the competition.
She also commended the teachers who prepared the students and their parents who not only encouraged them, but invested in the next generation of engineers.
Earlier in her presentation on “Shaping the future of Engineering” the resource person, Engr Dr Nneka Ezeani said the quiz competition was targeted at increasing students’ interest in engineering related subjects, including Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics.
“The competition is an avenue for awareness creation. I believe my presentation is an eye opener to the students who are now curious to know and learn more about engineering,” she added.
