IITA celebrates women and girls in science, inspires the next generation to close the STEM gender gap
13 February 2026
With the growing call for more girls and women in the research and science field, IITA–CGIAR has reaffirmed that gender equality and science must progress together to tackle global challenges such as food security, climate resilience, and innovation.
To mark the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGS) this year, the Institute organized an institute-wide celebration on 11 February, across its headquarters, stations, and hubs.
The event brought together secondary school students, their parents and teachers, IITA researchers, and key stakeholders to discuss the importance of closing the gender gap in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). It also demonstrated IITA’s strong commitment to promoting gender equality in science.
IITA Organizational Development Manager, Dr Helen Adeniji, who moderated the opening session highlighted the critical role of women in science.
Participants toured IITA’s facilities and technologies, an experience that left many excited and inspired. Students shared their unforgettable, first-time experience, describing how seeing advanced science for the first time helped them understand how research can transform lives. The tour session was anchored by the Head of the Communication Unit, Katherine Lopez, and the Assistant Specialist, Cassava Seed Systems, Mercy Diebiru-Ojo.
In her remarks, the Director of People & Culture, Leunidah Aukwe-Mwenesi, emphasized that science is at the heart of IITA’s mission to improve agriculture and livelihoods. She celebrated the outstanding contributions of women scientists and encouraged young girls—supported by boys—to see science as a career they can successfully pursue. Drawing from her personal experience, she shared how her father’s encouragement shaped her journey, reminding participants that success depends on determination, not gender. She urged girls to connect with mentors in STEM fields, assuring them that learning from experienced professionals can help them realize their potential.
A major highlight of the event was an engaging panel session moderated by the Head of the IITA School, Timothy Shepherd. Both men and women scientists from IITA shared their career journeys, with many explaining that their curiosity about how things work inspired them to study science. The panelists discussed why fewer women enter science, citing limited exposure, societal expectations, and fear as key barriers. They encouraged parents not to place limits on their children’s dreams. Project Management Officer, RTB and CBU, Crop Improvement, Richard Ofei, emphasized that girls can achieve even more when given equal opportunities.
Similarly, Head of the IITA Medical Unit, Dr Samson Adeleke, noted that his unit has more female staff and encouraged young girls to confidently pursue careers in science.
Other panelists included the Head of the IITA Germplasm Health Unit and Virology Unit, Dr Lava Kumar; the IITA-STEP Liaison Officer for Youth in Agribusiness, Adedayo Adefioye; Cassava Breeder and Crop Improvement NEXTGEN, Dr Edwige Gaby-Nkouaya Mbanjo; and Dr Olufunke Ezekiel from the Faculty of Technology, University of Ibadan.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from parents and teachers, coordinated by Dr Adeniji. In her closing remarks, IITA Food Safety Scientist, Dr Titi Falade urged young girls to boldly pursue STEM careers, reminding them that success is possible and that they can thrive in science.
Contributed by Ochuwa Favour Daramola
