Take up STEM courses in school - Dr Napari Hanifatu challenges girls

Lecturer at the Tamale Technical University, Dr Hanifatu Mumuni Napari has urged young girls not to be scared to take up Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) related course in school.
She encouraged young girls to choose their careers around STEM courses, saying that there are several opportunities in that sector for girls.
Dr Hanifatu was speaking at UNESCO’s African Institute of Mathematical Sciences Ghana’s (AIMS- Ghana) celebration of International Day of Women and Girls in Science held at the Nyankpala campus of the University for Development.
The 28 year old graduate of AIMS-Ghana and UDS was recently in the news for being the youngest female from Northern Region to acquire a PhD in Applied Statistics. Speaking on “The Career of a Woman Scientist and Researcher”, Dr Hanifatu recounted that her journey to attaining a PhD was not easy, noting that there were times she felt like giving up.
She was however quick to add that, she persevered and worked hard to become successful, urging participants-who were mainly students from second cycle and tertiary institutions never to give up.

The Statistics Lecturer at TaTU said she is mentoring other young girls to be like her.
The Vice Chancellor of the UDS, Prof Seidu Alhassan on his part underscored the importance of STEM education to the development of Ghana, saying that Ghana could not move beyond aid if Science, Technology and Mathematics especially among girls was not encouraged.
He said the university has taken particular interest in supporting girls in STEM, noting that it will continue to introduce STEM programmes to complement the existing ones.