WIC demands urgent upgrade of school laboratories, says girls are being discouraged from Science

Women in Chemistry (WIC) has called on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the North East Development Commission (NEDC) and other relevant agencies to urgently intervene in the provision of functional science laboratories in schools, warning that poor facilities are undermining science education and discouraging young girls from excelling in chemistry.

The appeal was made during the 2026 International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) Global Women’s Breakfast held at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, Delta State.

Speaking at the event themed “Many Voices, One Science,” the Coordinator of Women in Chemistry, Dr Sarah Nwinee, expressed concern over what she described as “unacceptable learning conditions” in many Nigerian schools.

“Science is practical in nature. You cannot teach chemistry effectively without proper laboratory exposure,” she said.

“It is worrying that many schools no longer have functional laboratories, yet students are expected to sit WAEC and other national examinations that require practical competence. This gap is discouraging many young girls from believing they can succeed in science.”

Dr Nwinee urged interventionist agencies to see laboratory development as a strategic investment in national growth.

“If we want innovation, industrial development and scientific breakthroughs, we must start from the foundation. I appeal to the NDDC, NEDC and other agencies to prioritise equipping schools with modern laboratories,” she added.

She described the Global Women’s Breakfast as more than a ceremonial gathering, noting that it serves as a global platform for women scientists to collaborate, mentor younger generations and advance research.

“This initiative connects women in science across the world. We share ideas, build networks and strengthen our collective voice in advancing science,” she said, adding that the 2026 edition marked her final year as Coordinator after serving since 2021.

A major highlight of the programme was a secondary school quiz competition designed to stimulate early interest in chemistry among girls.

According to Dr Nwinee, the competition goes beyond prize-winning.

“The quiz is not just about who comes first. It is about building confidence and showing these girls that they belong in science. When they prepare for competitions like this, they deepen their understanding and overcome fear.”

In a move to strengthen motivation, the prize money was increased fivefold this year — from N50,000, N30,000 and N20,000 to N250,000, N150,000 and N100,000 for first, second and third positions respectively.

Chairman of the Chemical Society of Nigeria (CSN), Delta Chapter, Prof Ellas Elemike, said the initiative aligns with efforts to ensure sustainability in the scientific community.

“As older professionals gradually exit the space, we need younger ones who are well prepared to take over. That is why we must intentionally inspire girls to study chemistry,” he said.

He emphasised that teaching methods must also evolve.

“Science should not be presented as abstract. Through our ‘Train the Trainer’ programme, we equip teachers to show students that science is part of everyday life. When students see its relevance, their interest grows naturally.”

In her keynote address, Dr Mariefel Olarte called for greater transparency and competence in scientific practice, stressing the importance of resilience and independence.

“Science requires movement and growth. Like riding a bicycle, you must keep moving to maintain balance,” she remarked.

Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of the Society of Petroleum Engineers, Simon Seaton, underscored the relevance of chemistry to sustainable oil and gas development.

“Chemistry plays a central role in ensuring efficiency, safety and sustainability in oil and gas operations.

 Strengthening chemistry education ultimately strengthens the industry,” he said.

A lecturer at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Prof Mary Edema, described Women in Chemistry as a mentorship-driven platform.

“We support one another in research and leadership. We also show young girls that chemistry is not too difficult. If others have succeeded, they can too,” she stated.

Addressing gender bias in professional spaces, former Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), FUPRE, Prof Doris Ogeleka, urged women to be confident and assertive.

“Our voices must be heard and valued. Inclusivity in science communication is essential if we are to build a balanced and progressive scientific community,” she said.

At the end of the competition, College of Education Demonstration Secondary School emerged overall winner, receiving N250,000. Ogbe Secondary School came second with N150,000, while Challenge Academy placed third with N100,000.

One of the winning students, Ezimadu Emmanuella, said the competition had strengthened her passion for chemistry.

“We chose chemistry because it is intriguing. This experience has motivated us to study harder and aim higher,” she said.

The organisers expressed optimism that sustained advocacy and improved infrastructure would enable more girls to pursue careers in science and contribute meaningfully to national development.

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