GENDER DISPARITY AND EMERGING CHALLENGES IN NIGERIAN STEM EDUCATION: IMPLICATIONS FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

Nations seeking to sustain global leadership and remain economically competitive have increasingly recognized the importance of providing all learners (both male and female) with equitable access to education, regardless of socioeconomic background. Such access must also equip learners with the 21st century skills and competencies required to address emerging global challenges. Consequently, any developmental process that neglects to enhance educational opportunities and improve the socio-economic status of women is likely to face significant setbacks. In this context, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education plays a critical role, as it integrates multiple disciplines and prepares students to adopt crossdisciplinary approaches in solving complex, real-world problems. This paper aims to examine the gender gap and other emerging challenges confronting STEM education in Nigeria within the context of sustainable development. The concept of STEM education and its primary objectives are discussed, along with the roles of various agencies involved in promoting STEM initiatives across the country. The researchers adopted content analysis to condense the existing literature and extract relevant data from diverse academic sources. The study further underscores the significance of gender equality in STEM education as a key driver of sustainable development, particularly as articulated in Goal 5 of the seventeen (17) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations for achievement by the year 2030. Other emerging issues confronting STEM education in Nigeria were also identified, and a conclusion was drawn based on the findings of the study. Consequently, several recommendations were proposed. These include the development and full implementation of a robust STEM education curriculum, strengthened partnerships between STEM promoting organizations in Nigeria such as the WAAW Foundation, NASENI, and SEDF and relevant donor agencies, the provision of effective career guidance and counseling services, and increased funding for STEM education. Collectively, these strategies are essential for ensuring the effective functioning and long-term sustainability of STEM education in Nigeria in alignment with the goals of sustainable development.

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