The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development in Ekiti State, Mrs. Olapeju Babafemi, has urged stakeholders to collaborate with the state government in empowering the girl-child. She made the appeal during the 14th Annual Adeyinka Ologbenla-Falusi Female Empowerment Programme (AOFFEP) awards, held at C.A.C Grammar School, Efon-Alaaye.
The event, organized by Prof. Adeyinka G. Falusi, a distinguished scientist and L’Oréal-UNESCO (FWIS) laureate, honored exceptional female science students from Efon-Alaaye. It also reinforced the need to bridge gender gaps in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
This year’s top honor was awarded to Oni Adeola Gold of Our Saviours School, Efon-Alaaye, who scored 74%. Afolayan Adediwura of Ekiti State Government College, Efon-Alaaye, earned second place with 70%, while Oluwatoyin Mosunmola of Gloryland College, Efon-Alaaye, secured third position with 64%. Other participants received consolation prizes for their efforts.
Mrs. Babafemi praised the winners for their academic achievements and emphasized the importance of inclusive education in driving societal progress. “Science and innovation are pivotal for sustainable development. However, women still represent only a third of the global scientific workforce,” she remarked.
Prof. Falusi, in her keynote address, shared her personal experiences, highlighting the importance of early education and parental support. “Train a girl, and you train a nation,” she said, urging parents to prioritize their daughters’ education and serve as their strongest advocates.
The event highlighted the collective need to empower girls and eliminate systemic barriers to their success. Dignitaries present included Pastor Chief M.T. Olowookere, former Commissioner for Information Hon. Odunayo Ategbero, and Efon Local Government Education Secretary Mr. Femi Afolayan.
As part of the awards, the top three female students received cash prizes, while the best male science student from each secondary school in Efon-Alaaye was also recognized.
Speaking on behalf of the awardees, Gold Adeola expressed gratitude to the organizers and pledged to pursue a career in science. “My success is a result of hard work and my parents’ unwavering support,” she said, encouraging her peers to stay committed to their goals.
The 14th AOFFEP awards celebrated academic excellence and reiterated the importance of collective efforts to break gender stereotypes, fostering a future where young women can thrive in science and innovation.