Johnvents Expands STEM Access for 100 Nigerian Girls to Bridge Gender Gap
Fidelis David in Akure
A leading agribusiness and manufacturing conglomerate, Johnvents Group, has articulated a deliberate policy direction aimed at bridging the gender gap in science and technology fields, as it engaged over 100 female students in a nationwide STEM exposure programme to mark International Women’s Day 2026.
Speaking on the initiative, the Managing Director of Johnvents Industries Limited, Caroline Omotosho said the event themed “Gain to Give,” underscores the Group’s strategic commitment to investing in future female talent while strengthening internal recognition of women’s contributions across its workforce.
She said the programme was implemented across 11 locations in Nigeria, reflecting the company’s most expansive intervention yet in promoting gender inclusion in technical fields.
“At the core of the policy-driven initiative was a structured student engagement programme that brought together 103 female secondary school students from 19 schools for hands-on exposure to careers in science, technology, engineering, and manufacturing.
“The students were hosted within the company’s operational facilities, where they interacted directly with professionals and observed real-time industrial processes.
“The programme, held between March 9 and 11, represents the fourth consecutive year the Group has commemorated International Women’s Day with targeted interventions, signaling a sustained institutional approach rather than a one-off campaign.”
According to her, in Ondo State, the engagement sessions were hosted at four major facilities—Johnvents Industries in Akure, Johnvents Foods in Idanre, Premium Cocoa Products in Ile-Oluji, and Noble Eagle Industries Limited in Owo where participating schools nominated outstanding female students based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and interest in STEM disciplines.
“Activities at the various locations included guided facility tours, career talks, and interactive sessions designed to demystify industrial careers for young girls.
“Senior female executives within the Group led discussions on career pathways, drawing from their personal experiences to inspire the students and provide practical insights into navigating male-dominated sectors.”
Omotosho who emphasized that the programme was anchored on a clear long-term vision said, “What we set out to do with this programme was simple but deliberate. We believe that exposure is one of the most powerful investments an organisation can make in the next generation.
“When a young girl walks through a factory floor and sees what is possible, something changes in her. That is the return we are investing in, and it is one that will outlast any single programme or financial quarter.”
Omotosho further noted that the initiative reflects the company’s broader policy stance that private sector players must move beyond rhetoric to practical interventions that expand opportunities for women and girls in technical fields.
Beyond student engagement, the Group also implemented internal workforce recognition programmes across its 11 operational locations, where female employees were honoured through appreciation events and recognition sessions.
The company said the dual approach external engagement and internal recognition was designed to reinforce a culture of inclusion while building a pipeline of future talent.
According to the Group, the “Gain to Give” philosophy is rooted in the belief that organisations that invest in mentorship, exposure, and opportunity not only empower individuals but also drive sustainable growth within their industries and communities.
