By Gloria Osemudiamhen
The Coordinator, Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has advised women to break into the traditionally male-dominated science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, emphasizing the importance of female representation
Mrs. Anani gave the advice during her visit to the Lady Mechanic Initiative Vocational Hub in Benin City, in advance of the forthcoming graduation ceremony of 50 ladies, who have been trained on compressed natural gas (CNG) conversion by the Lady Mechanic Initiative Vocational Hub. According to her, “We are really excited about this initiative, which is typically male-dominated. You hardly see women in this field. It falls under engineering in STEM.”
She commended the Founder of the Lady Mechanic Initiative, Mrs. Aguebor Sandra, for her innovative spirit, noting the initiative’s potential to address unemployment in the State. She engaged with Mrs. Aguebor to assess preparations for the upcoming graduation ceremony of the 50 graduands and expressed satisfaction with the level of professionalism displayed. She assured that her office would continue to explore progressive partnerships with stakeholders, who are committed to developing the State, saying, “This is another form of empowerment, and the Government of Edo State, under the leadership of Sen. Monday Okpebholo, is all about empowering the youths and women. For the support, we are most grateful.”
Mrs. Aguebor appreciated Mrs. Anani for the visit and expressed gratitude to the Sen. Okpebholo administration in the State for its efforts in empowering women in the State. She also emphasized that her passion for mentoring and skills development, drives her to train young individuals who are eager to learn and grow.
In her words, “It is wonderful that Her Excellency has taken the time from her busy schedule to visit us at the Lady Mechanic Initiative Vocational Hub. I would like to express gratitude for your visit and for taking interest in our activities, including the upcoming graduation ceremony. The graduation ceremony this Friday, is the first of its kind in Nigeria, where 50 ladies have been trained on CNG conversion. Under the leadership of Sen. Monday Okpebholo, I am committed to contributing to the economic development of Edo State.”
