Anambra Women Engineers To Attract Scholarships For Students
By Okechukwu Onuegbu
The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Anambra State Chapter, on Friday, vowed to sustain action towards promoting Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education among students.
The APWEN State Chairman, Engr Dr Ifeyinwa Chidum Dimson, who disclosed this in an inaugural speech after been sworn-in as the 4th Chairman of the organisation, noted that promoting STEM education would also assist in nurturing students interest in engineering.
According to Dimson, the chapter under her watch would equally promote STEM competition, career talks, boot camp, basic tech training and scholarships for pupils in different schools in Anambra State.
“APWEN Awka chapter will continue to play a more active role in Nigerians schools and communities, inspiring young girls to see engineering, not only as a viable career path but as a pathway to transform their communities and contribute meaningfully to national development,” she added.
She sought collaboration of the stakeholders with a view to making her vision as the Chairman for the next three years successful, adding that she envisaged a future where the organisation would become synonymous with excellence and innovation.
“I will empower and develop female engineers through mentorship, career development and skill enhancement, equipping them to excel and lead in diverse sectors of engineering fields. I plan to initiate more workshops, industrial visits, collaborative learning platforms, and strategic partnerships with both public and private institutions to enhance our professional competencies,” she noted.
Earlier in her valedictory speech, the immediate past Chairman of the chapter, Engr Helen Ifeanyichukwu, recalled that her administration which came on board with 3 point agenda of continuation on professional competence, instilling hopes and engineering in female gender, and integrating cum collaborations with uniform women engineers in military, force and paramilitary.
“APWEN is a non-governmental organisation but by the the overwhelming grace of God, good spirited individuals, freewill donations, supports, we were able to weather our financial storms effectively through cashless transactions. With our judiciousness, we were able to hand over a reasonable sum of money to the newly elected executive. We made the association enter into MOU with all the other divisions under Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Awka branch, to give APWEN Awka chapter a newer face,” she stated.
Speaking also, the National President, APWEN, Engr. Dr. Adebisi Osim, described the new Chairman as a leader not only dedicated to excellence in engineering, but also passionate about empowering women and advancing their collective goals.
“Leadership is not just a title; it is a responsibility to inspire, to innovate, and to serve. I do not doubt that under your leadership, this chapter will reach new heights, fostering collaborations and creating opportunities that will empower women engineers and benefit the community at large.
“This year’s theme, “Leadership: Positioning and Overcoming Barriers,” resonates deeply with APWEN’s mission. It reminds us that leadership in engineering is not confined to technical competence alone; it is about vision, courage, and resilience in the face of challenges.
“As women engineers, we know these barriers all too well—whether it is bre”As women engineers, we know these barriers all too well—whether it is breaking through stereotypes, gaining equal representation, or addressing systemic gaps in the profession. Yet, we also know that with determination and solidarity, these barriers are not insurmountable. We’ve lived it. We’ve conquered it. And today, we continue to pave the way for future generations.
Dr. Dimson’s appointment comes as evidence of her impressive credentials, her technical expertise. But more than that, I have witnessed her unwavering commitment to excellence and her passion for mentoring young women in engineering. As we celebrate this new leadership, I urge us all to reflect on how we, as an association and as individuals, can contribute to building an inclusive environment for engineers.
“Our work should be guided by innovation, collaboration, and mentorship. Let us not only build structures but also build people—mentoring the next generation of women engineers and inspiring them to see beyond the challenges and embrace their potential. Today is also a day to acknowledge the incredible achievements of this chapter under its past leadership.
” From organizing STEM competitions to engaging in community outreach programs, you have demonstrated that engineering is not just a profession—it is a tool for societal transformation. I encourage the new executives to build on this strong foundation and continue to make the Awka Chapter a beacon of excellence,” she noted.
The event also featured inauguration of other executive members by the State Chairman, as well as award presentations to distinguished individuals from all walks of life.
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