In a groundbreaking initiative, the Embassy of Spain in Nigeria has joined forces with Nigeria Health Watch to host a STEM seminar aimed at advancing healthcare in Nigeria.
Ambassador Juan Sell, speaking on this innovative venture in public diplomacy, underscored Spain’s commitment to promoting Women in STEM. He emphasised that women’s contributions in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) are crucial for the progress of healthcare. These women drive innovation, research, and breakthroughs, ultimately leading to more inclusive and effective healthcare solutions.
Sell highlighted the fact that women currently represent only 34 per cent of the STEM workforce, emphasizing the pressing need for increased gender diversity in these fields. He pointed out that public institutions like the Observatory for Women, Science, and Innovation, along with foundations such as Women for Africa, are actively working to bring women’s talent to the forefront in scientific arenas.
“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,” Sell stated.
The managing director of Nigeria Health Watch, Vivianne Ihekweazu described the one-day seminar as part of the Embassy’s scientific diplomacy programme. The goal is to bring together outstanding women from Nigeria and Spain to share their research findings, expectations for future projects, and transformational actions that could enhance the health of Nigerians.
The seminar’s theme, “Women for Health: Towards the Future of Healthcare in Nigeria through Women in STEM,” aims to foster collaboration between women in STEM in Nigeria and Spain for improved health outcomes. The event provides a platform for women actively involved in the healthcare sector to share insights, experiences and expertise.
Encouraging and empowering women in STEM is deemed essential for shaping a future where healthcare is both accessible and equitable. The seminar, with its focus on STEM, brings together critical stakeholders, experts and policymakers to deliberate on strategies and actionable steps for enhancing STEM collaboration and effective health service delivery in Nigeria. The event serves as a catalyst for advancing healthcare through the active involvement of women in STEM fields, paving the way for transformative progress in the Nigerian healthcare sector.
