The African Regional Centre for Space Science and Technology Education in English
(ARCSSTE-E) participated in the International Women’s Day celebration organized by the
African Regional Institute for Geospatial Information Science and Technology
(AFRIGIST) on Thursday March 12, 2026. The event formed part of the global
commemoration of 2026 International Women’s Day and brought together professionals,
researchers, women right activists and students to reflect on the progress made in advancing
women’s rights and gender equality.
The programme commenced with a formal protocol acknowledging dignitaries present,
including the Executive Director of AFRIGIST, Prof. Lazarus Mustapha Ojigi, Deputy
Executive Director of AFRIGIST, Surv. Abdoulaye Belem, the Institute’s Management and
Staff, the Guest Speaker, invited Staff and Students of ARCSSTE-E, Representatives from the
Cooperative Information Network (COPINE), Corporate Partners of AFRIGIST, Members of
the Press, and other invited Guests.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Ojigi congratulated the entire womenfolk on the celebration of
the International Women’s Day. He noted that the week-long activities organized by AFRIGIST
were aimed at celebrating the contributions of women globally, while drawing attention to the
need for greater commitment to women’s rights and gender equality.
The highlight of the event was a lecture delivered by the Guest Speaker, Dr. Ajayi, from the
Institute of Public Health, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State. The presentation
emphasized the concept of “Give to Gain”, which encourages investment in women through
opportunities, education, and empowerment initiatives. The speaker explained that supporting
women ultimately leads to societal benefits such as innovation, sustainable development, and
inclusive economic growth.
The lecture also addressed the concept of gender-equitable knowledge, which promotes equal
access to education, research opportunities, leadership roles, and participation in science and
technology fields. Participants were encouraged to foster inclusive environments that support
women’s participation in decision-making and professional advancement.
The speaker further noted that promoting gender equality helps bridge the gender gap, improve
gender-responsive planning, and integrate women’s perspectives into spatial data and
development processes. Participants were encouraged to empower girls through education,
skill development, access to technology and resources, as well as increased visibility and
leadership opportunities.
Afterwards, there was an interactive session where series of questions regarding the
inclusiveness of women in geospatial world were directed to the dignitaries in attendance.
Amongst those who responded was Mrs. Oluwatoyin Adekunle (of ARCSSTE-E), sharing the
importance of right mentorship in propelling female gender to become impactful.
In conclusion, the celebration served as an important advocacy platform for gender equality
and inclusiveness. It reinforced the vision of a world free of bias, stereotypes, and
discrimination, where diversity is valued and equal opportunities are provided for all.
Participants from ARCSSTE-E, led by Dr. Adebayo Ojo (Head, Space Applications), included;
Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatoyin Ajayi, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Adekunle, Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatosin Ogundolie,
Mr. Okibe Ogah, Mr. Kayode Olorunyomi, Mrs. Imade Andrew, Mrs. Adenike Akinpelumi,
Dr. (Mrs.) Mariam Agboola, Mr. David Abraham, Mr. Adeniyi Oluwagbohunmi and a sizeable
number of ARCSSTE-E’s Postgraduate Students.
Report written by Adenike Akinpelumi
Media & Corporate Communications Unit, ARCSSTE-E, Ile-Ife, Nigeria.
