Yearly, IITA–CGIAR organizes a special event to celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGS). This year, the event was held on 12 February and was themed “Women and Girls in Science Leadership – Inspiring a New Era of Leadership for Sustainability.” The event brought together secondary school students from the IITA International School, research fellows, and other Institute staff to celebrate the achievements of women in science and raise awareness about the potential of women and girls in the field. IITA People and Culture Manager for Talent Management and Engagement, Lade Oke, moderated the session.
IITA People and Culture Unit Head Lilian Mendoza delivered the opening remarks. She encouraged women and girls in science to learn from the presentations and continue to pursue their passion, as they are the future scientists and leaders of IITA.
Representing IITA Deputy Director General, Cooperate Services (DDG-CS), Hilde Koper, Facilities Management Service Head Waheed Quader commended IITA for organizing an event that brings women and girls together to discuss science. He highlighted that women make up less than 30% of the workforce in science, expressing uncertainty about the reasons behind this disparity and urging women to increase their participation in the field.
Two women scientists shared their success stories to inspire the audience during the event. Yam Diseases Phenotyping Specialist Olufisayo Kolade discussed the leadership potential of women and girls in science, emphasizing the importance of early exposure to science, incentives for women, work-life balance, employment opportunities, and celebrating women in the field. She encouraged women and girls to believe in themselves, stay focused, seek mentorship, and be willing to take risks to unlock their leadership potential.
Molecular Geneticist Ranjana Bhattacharjee highlighted reasons women may not apply for leadership roles, including self-doubt and limiting beliefs. She urged women to be more confident, emphasizing that science is not limited to a particular gender. Bhattacharjee encouraged women and girls to embrace their multitasking abilities and not limit themselves in their academic and career pursuits.
The event concluded with a question and answer session, during which participants, especially the students, had the opportunity to engage with the speakers. Oke encouraged all attendees to take action based on the inspiring words they had heard, emphasizing IITA’s commitment to celebrating and supporting women and girls in science. “Yes, we can,” she concluded, echoing the sentiment of empowerment and encouragement for women and girls pursuing careers in science.
Contributed by Favour Ochuwa Daramola
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