‘More women in science are needed’, according to the Lagos Chapter of the Women in Chemistry and Chemical Society of Nigeria.
They bemoaned the underrepresentation of women in science at the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry 2024 Global Women’s Breakfast, which was held at the University of Lagos and was themed, “Catalyzing diversity in science.”
Speaking on the theme, guest speaker Prof. Tolulope Fasina of UNILAG’s Department of Chemistry clarified that embracing diversity in science involved more than just representation; it also involved promoting innovation, excellence, and equity. She said that igniting diversity in science was a journey that called for action and collective commitment rather than a destination.
Diversity, according to her, in science refers to getting people involved in the field who are diverse in terms of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, viewpoints, backgrounds, specializations, religion, culture, etc.
“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.”
Speaking on “Leveraging technology and case studies pedagogies for inclusive learning,” Mr. Soji Megbowon, another speaker, discussed his experiences as a science expert and educator who empowers students in computer science at the local level.
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.”
Dr. Iyabo Phillips, Coordinator, CSN-LAGOS WIC, counseled female chemists to seek out further exposure to broaden their knowledge base and to share ideas for interactions for personal growth.
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.”
Dr. Seun Popoola, Chair of the CSN-Lagos Chapter, in his vote of thanks, expressed gratitude to all attendees and advocated for increased collaboration and connections with female chemists in research.
