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EKOEXCEL Impacts 500,000 Lagos Pupils In 1,013 Schools
The EKOEXCEL initiative by the Lagos State Government has brought about a significant transformation in public primary education within the state, positively impacting over 500,000 pupils across 1,013 schools. This achievement is especially noteworthy as the world celebrates the 2024 International Day for Women and Girls in Science under the theme ‘Women in Science Leadership: A New Era for Sustainability.’
Launched in 2019, EKOEXCEL stands as a testament to the commitment to create an enabling environment for girls to excel in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Beyond academic improvement, the program actively promotes gender equality and empowers young girls to embrace STEM fields with confidence. Through providing teachers with necessary tools and training to address unconscious biases and foster inclusive learning environments, EKOEXCEL ensures that STEM education is accessible to all, regardless of gender.
Renowned Nigerian physicist and women in science advocate, Dr. Nike Ogundari, emphasizes that STEM is not exclusively for boys and underscores the importance of girls’ unique perspectives and problem-solving skills in addressing sustainability challenges.
The success story of EKOEXCEL is exemplified by the outstanding performance of the top three performers in the 2023 National Common Entrance Examination, who were all exceptional young women: Ololade Ganiyat, Ugwu Victoria, and Chima Faith Mesomachukwu. Additionally, 50% of the candidates from Lagos state public primary schools were girls, and 70% of these candidates scored 70% or above, showcasing the program’s positive impact.
The achievements of these young girls are further highlighted by the accomplishments of influential Nigerian women in STEM, such as Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Professor Francisca Okeke, who inspire them to pursue their dreams and break barriers.
A notable example of EKOEXCEL’s efficacy is Fareedah Olawale, a primary 4 pupil, who, inspired by an “Hour of Code” lesson, aspires to become a software developer. Through engaging initiatives like this, girls discover their potential to become future game-changers.
Hon. Shijuade Idowu-Tiamiyu, a Permanent Board Member of LASUBEB, emphasized the importance of gender equality in education and encouraged young girls to pursue careers in STEM during a visit to St. Agnes Nursery and Primary School in Maryland on the International Day for Women and Girls in Science.
By nurturing the talents and aspirations of young girls in STEM, EKOEXCEL serves as a beacon of hope not only for Lagos State but for the entire nation and beyond. These young women are envisioned as future leaders, problem-solvers, and innovators who will drive sustainable solutions for the challenges of tomorrow.
Convicted billionaire kidnapper Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, also known as Evans, and his co-accused Joseph Emeka, have requested a plea bargain in their high-profile kidnapping case.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the State lead counsel, Mr. Yusuf Sule, disclosed the plea bargain request to the court on Thursday during the case’s call for re-arraignment. The case is being heard by Justice Adenike Cokers of the Ikeja High Court.
Evans and Emeka were scheduled to be re-arraigned on an amended five-count charge, including murder, attempted murder, conspiracy to commit felony to wit: kidnapping, and attempted murder.
Sule informed the court, “The case was for re-arraignment, but I am aware that the defendants have applied for a plea.”
The prosecutor also noted that the plea bargain terms are being reviewed by the Attorney-General of Lagos State, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN).
Peruvian Health Minister Cesar Vasquez has classified transgender, non-binary, and intersex individuals as mentally ill.
On May 10, Peruvian President Dina Boluarte, Health Minister Cesar Vasquez, and Minister of Economy and Finance Arista Arbildo signed a decree. This decree states that transsexualism, dual-role transvestism, gender identity disorder in childhood, other gender identity disorders, and egodystonic sexual orientation are all categorized as mental health problems.
Cesar Vasquez explained that the decree was necessary for Peru’s public health services to ensure comprehensive medical attention for mental health issues.
The decree has sparked outrage among the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer) community, which has labeled it discriminatory.
A medical researcher at Lima’s Scientific University of the South noted that although the decree might have been well-intentioned, it shows a lack of understanding of complex LGBT issues and potentially opens the door to conversion therapy.
Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has singled out captain Bruno Fernandes as the only senior player the club should retain at Old Trafford this summer.
Rooney urged the Red Devils to conduct a major clear-out of players during the summer transfer window.
This recommendation follows Fernandes’ key role in Manchester United’s crucial 3-2 victory over Newcastle United in the Premier League at Old Trafford on Wednesday.
Speaking to Sky Sports (via United in Focus), Rooney stated:
“He is the one player with quality and fight in him. I would keep the young players and Bruno, but all the other players need to go. There has to be a massive clear-out. It’s not going to happen in one year, but over the next couple of years.”
He added, “To compete with Man City, Liverpool, and Arsenal, they need better players.”
Billionaire Kidnapper ‘Evans’ Seeks Plea Bargain
Peruvian Gov’t Classifies Intersex, Transgender People As ‘Mentally Ill’
EPL: Conduct massive clearout – Rooney names only player Man Utd needs
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