By Joe Chukindi

The Association of Professional Women Engineers in Nigeria, APWEN, has reiterated the importance of engineering in national development, calling on more girl children to embrace the study of engineering.

The chairman of APWEN, Awka Chapter, Engr Ifeyinwa Dimson stated this in her inaugural speech, after her swearing-in as the chapter chairman at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka on Friday.

She said: “I remind you all of the critical role that engineering plays in shaping society, influencing our economy and improving the quality of life of all Nigerians.

“We as professional women engineers stand in a unique position to drive impactful change in our society, and that is what APWEN under my watch will do.”

She listed three key areas where her leadership of the organisation will concentrate on in her three-year term.

They include; empowering and developing female engineers, promoting STEM education and youth engagement and equipping the association’s secretariat.

She said: “For us to see a new generation of female engineers, it is essential to nurture interest in STEM fields from an early age. This we will achieve through career talks, STEM competitions, Boot camp, basic tech training and scholarships.”

She promised to visit as many schools as possible to speak with young female students to encourage them to become engineers.

The event was graced by several personalities and also featured awards to deserving individuals from Anambra and beyond.