By Gladys Ekpo-Ita
The Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), in collaboration with the Catch Them Young Initiative, has launched a strategic effort to promote Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education among secondary school girls in Cross River State. The initiative was officially introduced through a seminar held recently at Prof. Eyo Ita House, Calabar.
The event aimed to inspire young girls to explore future careers in STEM-related fields, with a particular focus on Nigeria’s raw materials sector. The seminar emphasized the importance of empowering girls to become confident, knowledgeable, and future-ready leaders capable of contributing meaningfully to national development through science and innovation.
According to the organizers, the core objectives of the partnership include increasing awareness about the role of raw materials in economic development, building interest in STEM education among young women, and equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in science and technology-driven industries. The initiative is designed to foster leadership and innovation by engaging secondary school girls early in their academic journey.

Addressing participants at the event, the Acting State Coordinator of RMRDC, Mr. Obot, described the collaboration as a promising step toward deepening STEM education and raw materials awareness across the state. He emphasized that while the focus is on girls, the broader goal is to build a generation of informed, empowered, and capable young leaders regardless of gender, who will shape the future of Nigeria’s raw materials and industrial sectors.
The seminar marks a significant milestone in the Council’s ongoing commitment to inclusive human capital development and underscores the critical role of early engagement in shaping the future workforce of Nigeria.







