The Kwara State Government has called on young women to embrace technology and innovation, affirming their vital role as future leaders and change agents in the digital economy.

The appeal was made at the conclusion of the SHE CREATES summer camp, a non-residential STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Mathematics) programme organised by the Women's Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC) at the Ministry of Education conference hall.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olorungbebe, the Director of Human Capital Development, Mrs. Wumi Oludare, commended the participants for their dedication and praised their growing proficiency in technology.

She highlighted that the girls' involvement in such initiatives is helping to close the gender gap in tech while equipping them to tackle real-world challenges through innovation.

An education specialist, Mrs. Khadijat Idris, encouraged the girls to maintain strong ties with their parents, urging them to seek parental guidance even when facing discomfort.

"Make your parents your best friends and allies in your journey of growth," she advised.

Mrs. Ibiyeye Temitope Kaothar, W.TEC's Kwara Coordinator, said the SHE CREATES initiative has been instrumental in expanding access to tech education for girls across the state since its launch in Kwara.

"W.TEC has existed for 17 years, operating in Lagos and other states. We arrived in Kwara in 2017 with the endorsement of the State Ministry of Education, and by 2018, we began full operations. This is our second SHE CREATES camp here," she noted.

She urged parents to take advantage of future editions and enrol their daughters, stressing that early exposure to technology paves the way for long-term success.

She added that this year's camp hosted 10 female students, who participated in a five-day non-residential programme, learning skills such as AI applications, web design, and more.

According to her, the camp serves as an opportunity to introduce participants to digital literacy at an early stage, while building and instilling in them the self-confidence they can carry wherever they go.

A trainer with W.TEC, Mrs. Ibrahim Tolulope, said " Over five days, the girls explored tech and graphics skills. We're currently working in 15 government schools across Ilorin and Offa, reaching around 30 schools statewide."

Miss Taiwo Adejare Omotosho, an SS3 student of Brilliant Star School, Tanke, said the camp was a perfect blend of fun and discovery. Omotosho said " I'm excited to return next year, another five days to dive deeper into tech and be inspired!"

AbdulAzeez Aisha Oyinkansola, an SS3 student of Access World Diamond Academic, Atiku Road, Adewole, said " The graphics design training was fascinating! I learned how to bring digital art to life, and I can't wait to create more."

Maryam Ahmed, the camp's best graduate, expressed gratitude, saying that " Thank you, W.TEC, for this empowering experience. The skills and confidence I've gained will guide my next steps and I hope to pay it forward by uplifting others."