According to the World Health Organization (W.H.O), Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the leading cause of cervical cancer globally. The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) further highlights that HPV is the most common cause of Sexually Transmitted Intections (STIs). In Nigeria, data from UNICEF in 2020 revealed that cervical cancer accounted for 66.67% of related deaths, with 8,000 fatalities recorded out of 12,000 reported cases. This makes it the third most comon cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women aged 15 - 44 in the country. These statistics underscore the urgent need to address this rising threat to lives of many vulnerable women.
The project " Preventing Cancer, Promoting STEM (PCPS)" was initiated to address this critical issue by enlightening and sensitizing young girls aged 9 - 15 on cervical cancer, its risks, and preventive measures. The initiative emphasized the importance of HPV vaccination, particularly before sexual exposure, as studies show this significantly reduces the likelihood of the infection.
Beyond health education, the project also aimed to tackle another pressing concern: the underrepresentation of women in STEM fields. According to UNESCO, only 35% of STEM students globally are girls, and just 1 in 5 scientists worldwide are women. In Nigeria, the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) highlights the lack of women's involvement in STEM policymaking, which hinders efforts to address national challenges effectively.
To inspire action, the participants were introduced to the concept of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and the importance of early engagement. The program addressed and debunked common mythis such as "Science is too hard" and "Engineering is only for men" while emphasizing that STEM fields are both achievable and inclusive.
To spark curiosity and practical interest, the girls participated in a hands on activity to build household electric circuits simulating a light bulb. Using components such as power source, wires, a breadboard, a resistor, and an LED, they were grouped into teams of four and tasked with creating their own custom circuits. The excitement and engagement displayed during this activity highlighted the effectiveness of experiential learning in fostering STEM interest.
As the session progressed, the girls were encouraged to share their career aspirations. Remarkably, 50% expressed a desire to pursue careers in healthcare, such as doctors and nurses, while 30% were interested in technology and engineering fields, including software and robotics engineering. The remaining 20% were still exploring their options. One participant shared her motivation for wanting to become a software engineer, inspired by the possibility of empowering others to pursue STEM. Her story was deeply encouraging and reinforced the sense of achievement in advocating for greater inclusion in STEM.
Preventing Cancer, Promoting STEM centered around three key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3), Quality Education (SDG 4), and Gender Equality (SDG 5). The project was birthed from the belief that empowering girls with health education on cervical cancer risks (SDG 3) is crucial, as good health forms the foundation for meaningful participation in STEM (SDG 4). Additionally, promoting gender equality (SDG 5) in STEM is essential for creating a more diverse workforce capable of driving innovation and solving real-world challenges.
Through PCPS, we have not only contributed to cervical cancer prevention but also inpsired greater STEM particiapation among young girls, paving the way for a more inclusive and innovative STEM workforce. Thank you!