Nigeria-Based STEM Club ‘WITIN’ Wins 2024 Science Outreach Award

A Nigeria-based STEM organisation, Women in Technology in Nigeria (WITIN) Girls STEM Clubs and Outreaches, a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing women and girls in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), has been awarded the 2024 Inspiring Women in Science Outreach Award.

This recognition highlights WITIN’s efforts to address the underrepresentation of girls in STEM by providing solutions that foster a safe and supportive environment.

Martha Alade, WITIN’s executive director and founder, accepted the award in London, saying, “It is both humbling and affirming to receive this award. We approach girls in underserved areas with the belief that access to knowledge is a fundamental right. At WITIN, we work tirelessly to inspire girls who would not otherwise have these opportunities, and we continue our efforts because the need is great.”

The judges praised WITIN for its clear goals, aligned with its mission to increase female representation in STEM. They also commended the organisation’s focus on both girls and teachers, as well as its community engagement and teacher network.

Dr Magdalena Skipper, Editor-in-Chief of Nature, commented, “Diversity of thought fuels innovation. When women and girls contribute their skills in research, we all benefit. It is crucial that women are equally represented in science, as it shapes the future.”

The Nature Awards for Inspiring Women in Science, in partnership with The Estée Lauder Companies, celebrates those encouraging women and girls to pursue STEM careers.

The Scientific Achievement Award honours early-career women researchers who have made exceptional contributions despite personal or professional challenges.

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Lisa Napolione, Senior Vice President of Global R&D at The Estée Lauder Companies, added, “We are thrilled to celebrate the seventh year of the Nature Awards. The calibre of applications each year is inspiring, knowing that these women are making a significant impact in research and STEM outreach. At ELC, we are committed to promoting gender equality in STEM and look forward to celebrating the continued success of the award winners.”

WITIN Advisory Board Chairman, Dr Markie Idowu, stated that the award is a global recognition of WITIN’s impact on the technology ecosystem over the past two decades. She emphasised the organisation’s commitment to advancing opportunities for women and girls in tech.

Board Secretary Ifeyinwa Okafor expressed gratitude, saying, “We are honoured to receive this award, which validates our efforts to bridge the gender gap in technology and inspire the next generation of female leaders.”

Board member Eno Okodugha noted that the award strengthens WITIN’s purpose and will drive it forward in educating young girls and women in science and technology.

Omowunmi Akinyoade, Senior Director of Cybersecurity Compliance at Pegasystems, added that the recognition will empower WITIN to expand its initiatives and inspire more young women to pursue technology careers.

Dr Mary Taiwo Ajide, a member of WITIN’s Girls Advisory Board, remarked that the award is a testament to the dedication and resilience of all involved in their mission to create opportunities for Nigerian girls to thrive and innovate in STEM.

WITIN/Chidimma