By Doris Obinna
The Embassy of Spain in Nigeria in collaboration with Nigeria Health Watch held a seminar on women in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) to improve healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
The one- day seminar was part of the Embassy’s scientific diplomacy program, to bring together outstanding women from Nigeria and Spain to share with a knowledgeable audience their findings in research programs, their expectations on future projects, and what transformational actions can be implemented to better the health of Nigerians.
Nigeria Health Watch in a statement disclosed that women in science, technology, engineering and math play a pivotal role in advancing healthcare. “Their contributions drive innovation, research, and breakthroughs, leading to improved diagnostics, treatments, and technologies resulting in more inclusive and effective healthcare solutions.
“However, women represent only 34 per cent of the STEM workforce, highlighting the need for increased gender diversity in science, technology, engineering, and math fields.
“The theme of the seminar ‘Women for Health: Towards the Future of Healthcare in Nigeria through Women in STEM’ aims to drive collaboration between women in STEM in Nigeria and Spain toward better health outcomes for Nigerians. The event aims to engage and empower women actively involved in the healthcare sector, offering them a platform to share their insights, experiences, and expertise.”
Speaking of this new area of public diplomacy action for the Spanish Embassy in Abuja, the Ambassador of Spain to Nigeria, Juan Sell, highlights that Spain is at the forefront of the countries promoting Women in STEM.
“Public institutions like the Observatory for Women, Science and Innovation, as well as Foundations like Women for Africa (which is participating in this program and many others in Nigeria), are stepping up to bring women’s talent to the scientific arena.
“And when the Embassy reflected on which area would most benefit from a scientific seminar led by women, we couldn’t help thinking of the healthcare sector, where their contributions are immediately palpable to every citizen.”
Encouraging and empowering women in STEM is essential for shaping a future where healthcare is both accessible and equitable. Hence the seminar is to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among critical stakeholders to improve the health sector in Nigeria.
With a focus on STEM, the event brought together critical stakeholders, experts, and policymakers to deliberate on strategies and actionable steps for enhancing STEM collaboration for effective health service delivery.