The History of the Foundation
Osaide for Girls in Science and Engineering Foundation was envisioned in the year 2018 and incorporated July 18th, 2019 with the aim to provide scholarships for young girls and some boys in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) in Edo State and across the six (6) Geo-political zones in Nigeria.
The aim is to promote and enhance education, access and opportunities in the STEAM fields, especially for underrepresented communities. The scholarship program started in February 14, 2020 with 7 outstanding girls from four(4) public Secondary Schools at senior level, two (2) undergraduates and one (1) post graduate from the University of Benin, Faculty of Engineering in Benin City. This program takes place on February 14th every year to change the narrative of what love means on Valentine’s Day.
Our Mission
At Osaide for Girls in Science and Engineering Foundation, our mission is to:
i. Provide educational opportunities for young people interested in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).
ii Provide educational materials for young people interested in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEAM).
iii. Promote and advance moral education, support young people interested in science and engineering.
iv. Support to public tertiary Institutions around the Nation in collaboration with partners in providing equipment for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and (STEAM) Education.
v. Work in alliance with Local and International Organizations, donors and other foundations with similar objectives in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).
Our Vision
Preparing a future for indigent girls and some boys in the study of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) space.
About The Founder - Engr. Dr (Mrs.) Patricia Opene-Odili
Engr. Dr. Patricia Nekpen Opene-Odili FNSE, FNICE, FNIM, FICIArb is a distinguished engineer, mentor, and leader with an impressive track record of professional excellence and social impact. She is the Managing Partner of Saide Consultants Limited and the Founder of the Osaide for Girls in Science and Engineering Foundation, an organization dedicated to empowering young girls and some boys in STEAM fields. Dr. Patricia Nekpen Opene-Odili is an Independent Non-Executive Director at Industrial and Medical Gases PLC (IMG) and a founding member of the Women in Energy Network (WIEN). She served as the President of the Association of Professional Women Engineers in Nigeria (APWEN) during the 2004/2005 session and is currently a Council Member and Board of Trustees (BOT) member of the organization.
As a trailblazer in the engineering profession, she has held various influential roles, including serving on the Board of Trustees of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and contributing as a member of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN). She is a Fellow of several prestigious institutions, including the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE), the Nigerian Institute of Construction Industry Arbitrators (FICiarb), and the Nigerian Institute of Management (FNIM). Additionally, she is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb), as well as the Chartered Institute of Directors (CIoD). Dr. Patricia Nekpen Opene-Odili is also recognized as the Pioneer President of the ExxonMobil Women Interest Network (WIN) Nigeria and a past Chairman of the University of Lagos Alumni Association (Lagos Branch, Oil & Gas Sector). Her dedication to mentorship and advocacy is reflected in her numerous leadership initiatives aimed at inspiring the next generation of engineers and energy professionals.
Born and raised in Lagos, Dr. Patricia Nekpen Opene-Odili is a proud member of the prestigious Benin Royal Family. She is known for her resourcefulness, dynamism, intellectual brilliance, and unwavering commitment to excellence. As a mentor, teacher, caregiver, and leader in the oil and gas industry, she has consistently demonstrated inspirational leadership and dedication to her field. Outside her professional life, Engr. Dr.Patricia Nekpen Opene-Odili is a devoted Christian who enjoys reading, traveling, and engaging in fitness activities, including tennis and regular workouts. She is an active member of the Ikoyi Club 1938 and is deeply committed to personal growth and community development.