The Oyo State chapter of the Geoinformation Society of Nigeria (GEOSON) has called on government at all levels to implement targeted policies and support systems to increase women’s participation in geospatial science and technology.
The appeal was made during the “Women in Geospatial Leadership Programme” held in Ibadan to mark the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
Push for inclusive policies and funding
Chairman of the Oyo chapter, David Afolayan, emphasised the need for deliberate interventions, including grants, policy reforms, and updated educational curricula to attract more women into geospatial-related fields.
He urged the government to introduce funding opportunities specifically for women pursuing careers in geoinformation science, while also aligning secondary and tertiary school curricula with global advancements in geospatial technology.
Afolayan further advocated for inclusive recruitment policies in the public sector to create more opportunities for qualified female professionals in the field.
Geospatial technology key to national development
He highlighted the growing importance of geospatial technology across sectors such as agriculture, urban planning, engineering, healthcare, and security, noting that increased female participation would strengthen Nigeria’s overall development.
Experts highlight education and innovation gaps
Former Vice-Chancellor of Covenant University, Bola Ayeni, stressed that improving women’s access to science education is critical to driving technological advancement in Nigeria.
According to him, although women often face societal and family-related challenges, they continue to excel academically when given equal opportunities. He called for stronger support systems, particularly in regions where girls’ education remains limited.
Meanwhile, a Machine Learning Engineer at Data Science Nigeria, Serah Peter-Adeoye, noted that emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, cloud computing, and satellite data are transforming the geospatial industry.
She explained that the field has evolved from traditional mapping and field surveys to advanced predictive analytics and automated systems, urging young professionals to build skills in spatial data science, remote sensing, and software development.
Bridging research and policy
Also speaking, Head of the Department of Geography at the University of Ibadan, Olutoyin Fashae, described geoinformation science as a vital link between research and policy-making.
She noted its critical role in disaster management, climate change response, and supporting vulnerable communities through data-driven solutions.
Mentorship initiative launched
The event also featured the launch of a mentorship and student outreach programme designed to nurture young talents in geospatial science.
Participants, including students and professionals from academia, industry, and the public sector, highlighted the importance of sustained engagement to build a more inclusive and innovative geospatial ecosystem.
A student participant, IteOluwakiisi Akinyamoju, said the programme expanded her understanding of career opportunities and personal development within the science field.
The initiative underscores a growing call for collaboration between government, academia, and industry stakeholders to empower more women and girls to thrive in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving tech landscape.
