By Ikenna Nwokedi 

The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Anambra State chapter, on Friday, 29th November 2024 held inauguration ceremony for her 4th Chairman, Engr. Dr. Ifeyinwa Dimson.

The colourful event which also featured inauguration of new executives and induction for new members was held at the ASUU Secretariat, UNIZIK with the theme, "Leadership: Positioning and Overcoming Barriers."

The APWEN State Chairman, Engr. Dr. Ifeyinwa Dimson in her inaugural speech after being sworn-in vowed to sustain action towards promoting of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education among students. The new APWEN Chairman Awka chapter noted that promoting STEM education would also assist in nurturing students interest in Engineering.

According to Dimson, the chapter under her watch would equally promote STEM competition, career talks, boot camp, basic tech training and scholarships for pupils in different schools in Anambra State.

Dr. Dimson said: "APWEN Awka chapter will continue to play a more active role in Nigerian schools and communities, inspiring young girls to see Engineering, not only as a viable career path but as a pathway to transform their communities and contribute meaningfully to national development," She said.

Dr. Dimson also sought for collaboration of stakeholders with a view to making her vision as the Chairman for the next three years successful, adding that she envisaged a future where the organisation would become synonymous with excellence and innovation.

"I will empower and develop female engineers through mentorship, career development and skill enhancement, equipping them to excel and lead in diverse sectors of engineering fields. I plan to initiate more workshops, industrial visits, collaborative learning platforms, and strategic partnerships with both public and private institutions to enhance our professional competencies," Dr. Dimson stated.

Earlier in her address, the National President of APWEN, Engr. Dr. Adebisi Osim, described the new Chairman as a leader not only dedicated to excellence in engineering but also passionate about empowering women and advancing their collective goals. Engr. Osim also disclosed that APWEN as an association is at the forefront of inspiring, educating and empowering students and professionals alike, fostering a culture of inclusivity and excellence in Engineering. 

The APWEN President affirmed that Engineering is the cornerstone of innovation and development which drives the solutions to some of the most pressing global challenges. She admonished the new Chairman to ensure the core values of the association is sustained during her reign as the Awka Chapter Association Chairman.

In her remarks, one of the Special Guests of Honour and Provost, College of Postgraduate Studies UNIZIK, Engr. Prof. Philomena Igbokwe eulogized APWEN for their mentorship and STEM programme geared towards empowering female science students. Prof. Igbokwe advised the Awka Chapter of APWEN to improve on timeliness and work on programmes that will benefit young women in science discipline while also congratulating Dr. Dimson on her new status.

Also speaking, the Vice-Chancellor, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, Prof. Kate Omenugha in her goodwill message titled, "Women as Change Makers", encouraged women to take up leadership position by being visible, outspoken and standing tall amongst their peers. 

Prof. Omenugha who was represented by Prof. Njideka Ebisi advised women to strive to make a change through innovation, achievements, vision and drive. The scholar affirmed that the Nigerian system is gradually opening ways for women to take leadership positions and they should thrive to be among policy makers and solution providers in all spheres of human endeavour.

Delivering her lecture on the topic, "Building 21st Century Women Leaders: The Role of Entrepreneurship", Prof. Clementina Uchenna Agbionu described leadership as the vital aspect of the success of any entity. The scholar stated that leadership must set clear goals, encourage open communication and innovation, she affirmed that although women are gradually getting involved in the act of leadership, alot more needs to be done in empowering women on that front.

Prof. Agbionu urged women to strive as much as possible to vie for positions in leadership arena of anywhere they are interested while they should also prepare themselves for such positions of trust and confidence.

Others who aired their views were the Hon. Commissioner of Power and Water Resources in the State, Engr. Julius Chukwuemeka. In her vote of thanks, Engr. Chioma Ezechukwu thanked all and sundry whose presence made the occasion grand. She promised that the association's members will work together in achieving their set  goals and objectives.

The event also featured award presentations to distinguished individuals from all spheres of human endeavour and presentation of academic materials to female post-primary school students in support of STEM.