Laikipia University marked the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGS) with a groundbreaking event to empower and inspire young women and girls to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The auspicious event under the theme: ‘Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science,’ took place on Tuesday, 11th February 2025, at the Vision 2030 Hall. The day is celebrated globally with the primary purpose of elevating the role of women and girls in the scientific community, encouraging them to take their place as active contributors to innovation and development.
Prof. Patience Mshenga, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration, Finance and Planning), represented the Vice Chancellor at the forum. While presenting the VC’s speech, she urged scientists and prospective scientists in the hall to keep breaking barriers in the field of STEM and research for the betterment of the world. She highlighted the challenges women endured in their pursuit of participating in science and research while acknowledging the significant milestones made by women of substance like the Late Prof. Wangari Maathai. Prof. Maathai won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004 for her contribution to sustainable development, democracy, and peace, and she is a role model to many women and girls.
The event marked a significant step towards fostering greater participation of women in STEM fields. It was a remarkable platform for students, researchers, and professionals to connect, learn, and share their knowledge while focusing on empowering the next generation of female scientists.
One of the most powerful elements of the day was the sharing of real-life success stories from women in science, showcasing their groundbreaking contributions to sustainability, research, and innovation. By facilitators sharing their personal experiences and successes with the audience, especially the young high school girls, the event spearheaded the University’s vision to ‘Nurture and Transform for the World’, through its Mission, ‘To contribute to the world through Education, Research, Training, Consultancy, Innovation, Outreach, and Collaboration’.
The stories by women in science inspired attendees by demonstrating how women are leading the way in scientific discovery and making a profound impact in their respective fields.
By bringing together like-minded individuals from academia, industry, and government, the event fostered meaningful collaborations and networks that will continue supporting women's growth in STEM. Moreover, it helped participants build the skills and strategies needed to overcome the barriers women often face in scientific leadership.
As the world moves towards greater inclusion in science, Laikipia University's celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science not only highlighted the importance of gender equity but also reinforced the role of women as catalysts for sustainable scientific progress. This event is a testament to the institution's ongoing commitment to empowering women and girls and providing them with the tools they need to succeed in STEM careers.
Prof. Robert Mwebi, Registrar (Academic Affairs), congratulated women for their immense contributions to the field of science and succinctly presented the university's programmes for secondary school students.
The colourful event was graced by university staff led by Prof. Patience Mshenga, DVC (AFP); the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) Kenya National Chapter led by Ms. Pamella Kilavi; and more than twenty girls’ secondary schools from the region, among other distinguished stakeholders in the field of science.
