Dateline: April 7-11,
2025, Venue Istanbul, Türkiye.
Topic, Global Summit on Sustainable Futures for Women and Youth. And one of the delegates and lead paper presenter is Dr Jummai Ahmadu.
The invite was straight to the point
Dear Jumai Ahmadu,
On behalf of the US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights and its organizers, this is to notify you that you have been selected to participate as a delegate in the Global Summit on
Sustainable Futures for Women and Youth, which will take place from April 7-11, 2025, in
Istanbul, Türkiye.
Dr. Isabelle Vladoiu
Founder
US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights who signed the invite said the Summit was the first global event to focus on the
implementation of the United Nations Pact for the Future and the EU Gender Action Plan III,
driving collaborative efforts to empower women and youth as leaders of sustainable development.
She said the Summit was organized by the US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights in partnership
with the Avcilar Municipality, under the leadership of Mayor Utku Caner Çaykara.
The event also featured collaboration with renowned global entities, including the United
Nations and the European Union.
Seven papers were delivered at the global summit:
(1) Accelerating Commitments on Women, Peace, and Security (Pact for the Future Action 9)
(2) Highlighting the Role of Women and Youth with Disabilities in Leadership and Sustainability Efforts (Pact for the Future Action 35)
(3) Showcasing Youth-Driven Initiatives Addressing Climate Change in Alignment with COP29 and Agenda 2030
(4.) Ensuring Equal Representation in Governance While Amplifying Youth Voices (Pact for the Future Action 36)
(5.) Promoting STEM Education for Girls and Marginalized Groups
(6). Fostering Lifelong Learning for Sustainable Industries
(7.) Exploring Global Funding Opportunities for Women and Youth Empowerment (Pact for the Future Action 14)
The primary goal of the Global Summit, it was gathered was to provide a roadmap for the implementation of these
global policies and spark transformative discussions and actions that will shape the future for
women and youth as leaders of sustainable development.
In her presentation, Dr Jummai Ahmadu speaking on (5) Promoting STEM Education for Girls and Marginalized Groups submitted that in a world increasingly driven by technology and innovation, the importance of equitable access to education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics cannot be overstated.
Unfortunately she reminded that the stark reality in Nigeria where girls and marginalized communities often remain on the sidelines of this crucial educational domain.
According to her, research consistently shows that diversity in STEM fields drives innovation and economic growth.
“When we empower girls and marginalized groups to enter these fields, we not only transform their lives but also strengthen the entire communities and economies. However, the barriers they face are significant: cultural biases, inadequate resources, and a lack of role models.”
Using Nigeria, as a reference point, Dr Jummai said over 10 million girls are out of school. Many of them live in rural areas where educational opportunities are scarce. Those who do attend school often face systemic challenges, including early marriage, poverty, and insufficient infrastructure.
It is imperative, she explained that there was need to address these barriers head-on.
To promote STEM education effectively, she advocated the implementation of multifaceted strategies which include the need to engage local communities in understanding the value of education for girls.
Initiatives that involve parents and community leaders that can help shift cultural norms and encourage families to prioritize girls’ education.
On access to resources, she noted that efforts must be made to ensure that schools in underserved areas are equipped with the necessary tools for STEM education—computers, laboratories, and trained teachers.
Just as investment in infrastructure is vital to create an enabling environment for learning.
According to her, establishing mentorship programmes that connect young girls with female role models in STEM fields can ignite their passion and inspire them to pursue these careers.
“Seeing someone who looks like them succeed can be a powerful motivator.”
She further explained that there was need to advocate for policies that promote gender equality in education at all levels. Supporting legislation that prioritizes girls’ education and funds STEM initiatives remain crucial for long-term change.
On partnerships with Private Sector, she said collaborating with the private sector can provide internships, scholarships, and job opportunities for young women in STEM.
“This not only equips them with skills but also helps bridge the gap between education and employment.”
She said the future that is envisioned where girls and marginalized groups thrive in STEM—is within our grasp. “Together, we can create pathways to knowledge, innovation, and empowerment.”
She therefore re-emphasised the need for more commitments to fostering an inclusive environment where “every girl, regardless of her background, can pursue her dreams in STEM. By investing in their education, we are investing in a sustainable future for all.”
Indeed it was a beautiful outing and educative programme.
Abdul wrote in from Abuja via abduljelil2001@gmail.com
