Zainab Olawunmi Giwa: FUTA Student Forging a Future in Welding Excellence

Zainab Olawunmi Giwa, a final year Metallurgical and Materials Engineering student at the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), is making waves with her proficiency in welding. Breaking gender norms, Zainab aims for a career in Underwater Welding Engineering, an unconventional choice in a predominantly male field.

Raised in Lagos, Zainab's educational journey took her through Tukur International Schools, Doctor Soyemi Memorial Secondary School, and Federal Government College Ilorin. Financial constraints led her to Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, a decision influenced by the broad opportunities within the field.

READ ALSO: 42 Adekunle Ajasin University Students Achieve First Class Honors in 12th Convocation

Her interest in welding sparked during a Shipyard company stint in Apapa, Lagos, as part of her Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) in 2017. The experience solidified her passion, leading to formal training at Yaba College of Technology.

Zainab emphasizes the synergy between welding and Metallurgical Engineering, where metallurgical knowledge aids in predicting weld outcomes and selecting suitable materials for fabrication. Her welding experience enhances both practical problem-solving skills and academic understanding.

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU: Mareena Robinson Snowden: Pioneering the Path as the First Black Woman with a Nuclear Engineering PhD from MIT

Addressing safety, Zainab advocates for the use of personal protective equipment for welders. Despite facing skepticism from male counterparts due to gender stereotypes, Zainab remains resilient and aims to pursue welding as her major profession post-FUTA, even considering a Master's in Underwater Welding Engineering.

Her parents' unwavering support and a strong sense of purpose keep Zainab on her path, breaking barriers and inspiring others in the process.