By Khalid Idris Doya Bauchi
The Wunti Al-Khair Foundation has launched the EmpowerHer Initiative, a transformative program designed to equip young girls in Bauchi with essential skills in technology, leadership, and entrepreneurship. The initiative targets girls aged 11 to 18, aiming to break barriers and create opportunities through hands-on training, mentorship, and industry exposure, particularly in fields where women remain significantly underrepresented.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, which took place on Tuesday at the Professor Iya Abubakar Resource Center in Bauchi as part of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Wunti Al-Khair Foundation's Director of Programs, Mr. Ango Mustapha, emphasized the urgent need to address gender disparities in STEM and business. "Across Northern Nigeria, countless young girls with immense potential face cultural and structural barriers that limit their access to education and career opportunities," he said.
Mustapha explained that women remain vastly underrepresented in technology, leadership, and entrepreneurship – not due to a lack of talent, but because of systemic limitations. "By providing these girls with skills, confidence, and mentorship, we are not just investing in their futures – we are investing in the future of our society," he added.
The foundation launched the initiative with over 150 participants selected from public and private secondary schools across Bauchi State. Despite the rapid growth of technology and entrepreneurship in Nigeria, women account for less than 20% of the tech workforce and face significant barriers to securing leadership roles in business. According to Mustapha, EmpowerHer is designed to close this gap by offering structured training in coding, digital skills, business development, and leadership – ensuring that young girls have the tools they need to compete and thrive in today's economy.
Aligned with this year's International Day of Women and Girls in Science theme, which advocates for increased female participation in STEM, EmpowerHer will also establish a strong network of female mentors, role models, and industry experts to guide participants on their journey toward becoming leaders and innovators. Mustapha urged parents, educators, industry leaders, and policymakers to support the initiative and work together to create a more inclusive future – one where young girls are not just participants but trailblazers and pioneers in technology, business, and leadership.
Some of the participants, Fatima Adamu and A'isha Gambo, expressed their gratitude to the foundation, acknowledging the initiative as a transformative opportunity that will significantly enhance their lives. "The skills and knowledge gained will empower us to achieve greater financial independence and contribute positively to our communities," they emphasized.
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Empowerment