By Aja Beyai
Kodou Jeng, a prominent Gambian engineer and President of Women in STEM Gambia, urged 120 scholarship recipients to pursue excellence at a recent award ceremony hosted by President Adama Barrow. Jeng, a beacon of resilience, emphasized education’s critical role in shaping The Gambia’s future, particularly for young women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
“Investing in education, especially for girls, is investing in the nation’s future,” Jeng declared. She envisioned the students as future doctors, data scientists, engineers, and leaders who would drive national progress. Her words resonated with the audience, underscoring the transformative power of academic dedication.
Jeng shared her arduous 20-year journey to earn her first degree, marked by financial struggles but fueled by perseverance. Now leading an organization that empowers young women in STEM, she inspires countless girls to break barriers. “Stay curious, engage with diverse perspectives, and embrace unexpected opportunities,” she advised, noting that success often stems from uncharted paths. She defined true success as “becoming the best you are capable of becoming.”
Jeng offered practical wisdom to the female students: “You can do it. Success isn’t magic—commitment, consistency, and smart learning. Study smarter, not just harder.” Her message was a call to action, encouraging the scholars to seize their potential with determination.
Globally recognized for her advocacy, Jeng has become a role model for aspiring female leaders in The Gambia and beyond. Her work with Women in STEM Gambia continues to pave the way for equitable opportunities in fields historically dominated by men. As the scholarship recipients embark on their academic journeys, Jeng’s story is a powerful reminder that perseverance and strategic effort can unlock boundless possibilities for the nation’s youth.
