US Consul General, John Bray has disclosed that the United States has invested millions of dollars to advance gender equality across sub-Saharan Africa, through activities that promote political and economic opportunities for women, access to health and education services, and prevent or respond to gender-based violence.
Bray made this known while giving his remarks during an occasion to commemorate The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, which held at the Silverbird Cinema, Lagos.
Bray explained that the United States has been investing in gender equality across Sub-Sahara Africa because “The U.S. government is convinced that when barriers to the participation of women and girls in the STEM fields are removed, women do better, families do better, countries do better, and the world does better.” He added that whether at home or abroad, promoting women in the STEM fields is a priority of the U.S. government.
Bray who noted that there’s an increase in the number of young girls who are interested in STEM noted that achievement in STEM-related fields is a key building block for any country’s economic success. He added that, “with that in mind, friends and allies of Nigeria must encourage and assist Nigeria to succeed in this area.”
He charged Civil Society Organizations and media outfits to form partnerships and expand their networks to grow more women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, STEM.
The event also features the screening of “Hidden Figures,” a movie that presents the true story of three brilliant African-American women who successfully broke racial and gender barriers to contribute to America’s race to the moon.