The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has taken a significant step towards promoting gender equality in the field of engineering and technology.
Through the Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer (PICTT), NASENI has awarded N70.5 million in grants to six outstanding female engineers under the Developing Engineering Leaders Through Her (DELT-Her) initiative.
Launched on International Women’s Day, March 8, 2024, the DELT-Her project aims to address the gender imbalance in engineering and technology-based businesses in Nigeria.
The initiative seeks to empower young women in these fields by sponsoring their innovative ideas and projects.
At the grant award ceremony held at NASENI Headquarters in Abuja, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO Khalil Suleiman Halilu emphasized the importance of providing women with the necessary tools and support to thrive in traditionally male-dominated fields.
He encouraged the awardees to serve as role models for others and foster environments where women can excel in engineering and technology.
The six grant recipients, selected from over 120 applicants, will receive funding, technical support, and links to partners and commercialization of R&D institute outputs.
Some awardees will also participate in the forthcoming AFRI. Lab Annual gathering in Cape Town, South Africa.
The grant recipients and their projects include Rukkaya Abdulmutalib, who will develop an Artificial Intelligence Censored Machine to Monitor Soil Health for Greenhouses, receiving N3 million.
Patience Ibrahim-Janda will produce Automobile Brake Pads from Organic Waste, receiving N10 million.
Amina Khaleel will develop a Drone for Intelligent Real-time Security and Target Tracking, receiving N17.5 million.
Dr. Kudirat Jimoh will create an Electronic Training Board/Device for Science and Engineering Students, receiving N16.5 million.
Dr. Ikechukwu Francisca will develop an Automatic Bambara Flour Processing Machine, receiving N8.5 million. Abisola Olayiwola will create a Solar-powered Snail Shelling Machine, receiving N15 million.
In commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child, four Junior Girls Secondary Schools showcased their innovative devices at the agency, including fueless generators, mini refineries, and solar-powered machines.
This initiative marks a significant step towards promoting gender equality and empowering women in STEM fields in Nigeria.
By supporting innovative ideas and projects, NASENI is fostering a culture of inclusivity and excellence in engineering and technology.
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