Lagos Deputy Governor, UNILAG VC Honored at STEM Awards

Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat and University of Lagos Vice-Chancellor Folasade Ogunsola were among prominent Nigerians recognized at the fifth Women in Technology and Engineering Summit and Awards (WITESA). The event celebrated their significant contributions to inclusive innovation and the advancement of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) within Nigeria.

During the summit, held in Lagos, Mr. Hamzat, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Bolanle Olukare, emphasized the need for governments, private organizations, and educational institutions to actively bridge Nigeria's digital divide. He highlighted Lagos State's investments in technology hubs, digital education, healthcare innovation, and broadband infrastructure as key drivers of economic growth and opportunities for women and youth.

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No community should be left behind by geography, economic status, age or gender.

Mrs. Ogunsola was honored alongside other distinguished women from the technology, telecommunications, fintech, and healthcare sectors for their impactful work in STEM and national development. The convener of WITESA, Motunrayo Opawole, stated that recipients were chosen through an open public nomination process, acknowledging the widespread recognition of their efforts.

Mr. Hamzat received the Public Sector Technology and Engineering Leader of the Year Award, while Mrs. Ogunsola was presented with the Research Excellence Award in STEM. The summit, themed "Engineering Africa’s Future: Innovation, Infrastructure and Inclusive Technology," also featured discussions on strengthening women's participation in STEM, addressing barriers, and fostering innovation across the continent.

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People know, people are looking, and your efforts are recognised.