…Transforming Cross River State’s Educational Landscape
Calabar – The office of the Wife of the Governor of Cross River State, in collaboration with Guru Innovation Hub and esteemed partners, has officially launched the Rev. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu STEM Girls project. This momentous occasion signifies a significant step in the state’s commitment to promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education among young girls and fostering innovation and technological advancement NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
The Rev. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu STEM Girls project has a profound mission: to bridge the gender gap in STEM fields, empowering young girls to embrace their potential as innovators, problem solvers, and leaders. This initiative acknowledges the incredible contributions that girls can make in shaping society and aims to provide them with essential support, opportunities, and mentorship to excel in STEM-related careers.
At the flag-off ceremony, Rev. Mrs. Otu, the Wife of the Governor of Cross River state, conveyed her unwavering commitment to empowering girls and harnessing the transformative power of STEM education. She commended Guru Innovation Hub and other partners for their collaborative efforts, praising their dedication and shared vision for a brighter future. She emphasized, “In today’s rapidly changing world, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, collectively known as STEM, have become the driving forces of progress. These fields hold the keys to innovation, development, and prosperity. It is our responsibility to ensure that our young people are not left behind but are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in STEM.”
“As part of our People First Agenda, my husband and I aim to create an inclusive ecosystem where girls can dream big and pursue their passion in STEM without hesitation. By investing in their education and empowerment, we are investing in the future of our state, a future that will be defined by innovation, progress, and equal opportunities for all.”
The Commissioner for Youth Development, Odum Ukam, praised Rev. Otu for this pioneering initiative, emphasizing its potential to drive innovations and empower girls in the state. He noted that gone are the days when girls were confined to traditional roles, and this initiative would not only educate them but also encourage them to become creators of various technologies.
Mr. Oku Oku, a partner of Guru Innovation Hub, stressed the importance of equal opportunities in STEM education. He highlighted the need to dismantle barriers and stereotypes hindering girls from pursuing STEM disciplines, calling on all stakeholders to support this noble cause.
The Vice-Chancellor of UNICROSS, represented by the DVC Administration, Prof. Ekeng Ekefre, commended the initiative as the best organized for girls. He urged that females in rural areas be included in the program.
Dignitaries present at the event included the Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Agnes Atsu, Chairman of IRS, Mr. Edwin Okon, and other distinguished guests.
The event featured project presentations, poems, and song renditions by beneficiaries. The project is set to run for five weeks, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of numerous girls in Cross River State and creating a ripple effect that will extend far beyond the boundaries of education.
