Africa-Press – Botswana. Empowering girls and young women to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) careers has the potential to drive innovation through exploring problem-solving technologies, says chief education officer for Jwaneng/Mabutsane region, Ms Zappora Maphange.
Speaking at the Girls Engineering workshop for over 200 junior secondary school female learners from Jwaneng, Maokane and Mabutsane on Tuesday, Ms Maphange underscored the need for brilliant minds that could explore such opportunities and bring solutions to the ever evolving universe.
“Events like these serve as a catalyst, empowering young women to reach their full potential in this field,” she said. “Our goal is to unveil the vast, unexplored territories within these turfs, from constructing cutting edge technologies to unravelling the mysteries of the universe.”
Ms Maphange said young women had the potential to use their intellectual capabilities to not only challenge stereotypes and bridge the gender gap but above all finding solutions to new challenges facing the world. She urged them to pursue their dreams and strive for growth despite the challenges they may encounter in their journey.
Ms Maphange applauded Jwaneng Mine female engineers who shared their inspiring stories with the learners, with the intention to motivate them towards making a difference through STEM careers.
“These are stories of perseverance, achievement and making a tangible difference in the world of STEM.
They are living testaments to the boundless opportunities accessible to those with dedication and the right support,” she noted.
Jwaneng Mine’s Senior Corporate Affairs Manager, Ms Charity Thite, said the event created a platform of interaction between the pupils and females who were already in the STEM fields, with the intention to inspire young girls and empower them to unlock opportunities into the future.
She said the underrepresentation of women in these fields hindered the output of a diverse workforce.
“As it stands we face a considerable gender imbalance in the fields of STEM, women particularly in engineering continue to be underrepresented.
This disparity does not only curb opportunities for women, but it also hinders the potential for innovative solutions that a diverse workforce can bring,” she said.
Consequently, Ms Thite encouraged learners to be purpose-driven and be intentional when pursuing their studies.
She noted that this would also prepare them for similar programmes such as Maranyane Bokamoso, as they proceed to senior school level.
Ms Thite said such initiatives were testament to Debswana’s commitment to promoting education and gender equality, as well as igniting the passion for STEM fields among young girls.
For his part, Jwaneng Deputy District Commissioner, Mr Odiseng Moruti, affirmed the young girls that they had the potential to make a difference while at the same time following their dreams.
He underscored the need to embrace challenges since they were part of the journey and also paved way for growth.
“Your voice matters, your ideas matter, and your dreams matter. Never underestimate the power you have to create a positive change in your communities, your country and the world,” he said.
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