Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Ota Chapter, paid a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor of Covenant University, Professor Timothy Anake, to reaffirm their mission of advancing female participation in engineering and to seek the University's continued support.

In her address, the Chairperson of APWEN, who is also a Covenant University faculty member, Engineer (Dr.) Olufumilayo Joseph, highlighted the association's rich history and impactful work since its founding 42 years ago. She explained that APWEN was established to inspire girls in secondary schools to pursue engineering, empower female engineers, and foster excellence in their careers.

Dr. Joseph outlined the association’s various initiatives, including science competitions, career talks, ICT training, robotics workshops, technical seminars, and outreach programs to rural areas. She emphasized that one of the association’s primary goals for the year is to expand their membership by engaging more industries in Ota, while also offering career development opportunities through public lectures, industrial visits, and technical presentations.

As she detailed APWEN Ota Chapter’s role as the headquarters for the region, with 70 members from institutions such as Bells University, Ogun State Institute of Technology (OGiTECH), Igbesa, Ilaro Polytechnic, Shell Nigeria Gas, Nigeria Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI), Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company Plc IBEDC, Ota, Dr. Joseph congratulated the new University management and expressed gratitude for their unwavering support.

The highlight of her speech was the upcoming inauguration of the chapter’s newly elected executives, scheduled for March 15, 2025; as she solicited the University’s assistance with financial support, and a venue for the event.

In his response, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Anake, commended APWEN for its efforts to promote gender equality and empower women in engineering. "Covenant remains a university of inclusion and equal opportunity, where no one is hindered by gender, physical ability, or religion," he stated.

He congratulated the newly elected executives and praised the association’s commitment to outreach programs in rural areas, while encouraging them to sustain their traditions. He also reaffirmed the University’s support for their initiatives.

The Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Igban, echoed the Vice-Chancellor’s sentiments, emphasizing Covenant University’s commitment to investing in engineering. He assured that more female students would be admitted into the engineering department and that women would be actively recruited into engineering faculty positions.

Also in attendance were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lanre Amodu; Director of Financial Services, Pastor Sam Audu; and other members of APWEN Ota Chapter.

The meeting concluded with optimism as APWEN reaffirmed its mission to inspire and elevate women in engineering, with Covenant University pledging its continued support in fostering innovation and inclusivity.