Let’s talk about something super important: getting more girls involved in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields here in Africa. We all know how much potential our continent has, and tapping into the brilliance of all our young people is key to unlocking it. So, how do we get more girls excited about STEM? Before we dive into it, let me give a detailed overview to help you understand the background .
Girls are historically underrepresented in STEM fields globally. One significant trend of the 21st century is the growing recognition of the need for diverse perspectives and the benefits of inclusive innovation. This feeling has made more girls pursue careers in STEM, contributing to advancement in science and technology but also closing the gender gap in critical areas. The downside is that this awareness has little or no impact yet in remote African societies. I believe that encouraging girls in Africa to get into STEM will have many benefits:
Closing the Gender Gap
Getting women in STEM helps to balance the gender gap, ensuring equal opportunities and representation in high-impact, high-growth fields. This creates a feeling of equality among male and female genders in the field.
Economic Growth
Increasing the number of women in STEM careers contributes to economic growth by expanding the talent pool and driving advancements in technology and industry. Diverse teams are also known to improve company performance and productivity.
Diverse Perspectives
Women bring different and unique viewpoints and problem-solving approaches to STEM fields. This leads to innovative and creative ways of solving problems especially problems that affect women.
Role Models and Mentoring
STEM fields are usually considered as difficult. As we encourage more girls and help them succeed in STEM fields, they can serve as role models and mentors for future generations. This creates a positive feedback loop, inspiring and encouraging more young women to pursue similar paths
Personal Fulfillment and Empowerment
Engaging in STEM can be empowering for girls, providing them with a sense of accomplishment, confidence, and the skills needed to tackle complex problems. It also opens doors to diverse and rewarding career paths and places girls from Africa on equal pedestal with their counterparts from other parts of the world.
Having highlighted some of the benefits of getting girls into STEM in Africa, let me now discourse ways we can do this.
Smash Stereotypes Early
From a young age, girls are often subtly (and sometimes not so subtly!) told that STEM subjects are “for boys.” We need to challenge these stereotypes in schools, at home, and in our communities. Let’s showcase successful female STEM role models and highlight how diverse and exciting these fields can be. Breaking down these outdated ideas helps girls to see STEM as an exciting career path for them, opening up a world of opportunities and possibilities they would otherwise miss.
Spark Curiosity with Hands-on Activities
Nothing beats getting your hands dirty! Think science experiments, coding workshops, building robots – the works! Making STEM fun and interactive will capture girls’ imaginations and show them how these subjects relate to real-world problems. Hands-on learning makes STEM engaging and memorable, fostering a genuine love for discovery and problem-solving.
Mentorship Matters
Connecting girls with female STEM professionals can make a huge difference. Mentors can provide guidance, support, and be a source of inspiration, showing girls what’s possible and helping them navigate potential challenges. Mentorship provides girls with invaluable real-world insights and encouragement, boosting their confidence and helping them envision themselves in STEM careers.
Showcase Female STEM Role Models
We need to celebrate the amazing African women who are already making waves in STEM! Let’s share their stories through media, school visits, and public events. Seeing is believing, and these role models can inspire the next generation of female scientists, engineers, and innovators. Seeing successful women in STEM makes these careers seem more attainable and relatable, motivating girls to pursue their own STEM dreams.
Engage Parents and Communities
Parents and communities play a vital role in shaping girls’ aspirations. We need to involve them in STEM education initiatives, address their concerns, and encourage them to support their daughters’ STEM interests. When families and communities are on board, girls receive consistent encouragement and support, creating a stronger foundation for their STEM journey.
Use Technology to Bridge the Gap
Technology can be a powerful tool for reaching girls in even the most remote areas. Online courses, virtual mentorship programs, and educational apps can provide access to STEM resources and opportunities. Technology expands access to STEM education, breaking down geographical barriers and reaching girls who might otherwise be left behind.
Support Girls in STEM Clubs and Competitions
Creating dedicated spaces for girls to explore STEM subjects together is crucial. STEM clubs and competitions offer a supportive environment where girls can collaborate, learn from each other, and build their confidence. These clubs foster a sense of community and belonging, creating a safe space for girls to experiment, take risks, and develop their STEM skills.
Provide Scholarships and Financial Aid
Financial barriers can prevent girls from pursuing STEM education, especially at the university level. Offering scholarships and financial aid specifically for girls in STEM can level the playing field. Financial assistance removes a major obstacle, making STEM education more accessible and equitable for girls from all backgrounds.
Address the Digital Divide
While technology is important, we need to acknowledge the digital divide. Many girls in Africa lack access to computers and the internet. We need to invest in infrastructure and provide access to technology for all girls. Bridging the digital divide ensures that all girls have the opportunity to participate in the digital world and benefit from the resources and opportunities it offers.
Celebrate Success and Recognize Achievements
Let’s celebrate the achievements of girls in STEM! Recognizing their accomplishments through awards, competitions, and media coverage will inspire others and show the world what they’re capable of. Celebrating success reinforces positive messages about girls in STEM, encouraging them to continue pursuing their passions and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
If you are looking for programs that focus on building the STEM spirit in young girls early, Elites Touch schools is a good fit for you.
Educational Programs and Workshops
We provide hands-on STEM experiences, mentorship, and workshops tailored for girls. These programs are designed to build skills, offer exposure to various STEM careers, and address any gaps in knowledge or confidence.
Mentorship and Networking Opportunities
We organize mentorship programs that connect girls with women professionals in STEM fields. Networking events and online platforms are also organized to help girls build connections, gain insights, and bolster a sense of community.
Scholarships and Grants
We direct young girls who are interested in STEM field to organizations that provide financial support through scholarships and grants to help remove barriers to education for girls pursuing STEM degrees. This support can cover tuition, research opportunities, and other educational expenses. Such organizations includes MPower, British Council Women in STEM Scholarships, and get more here.
In conclusion, it is not common to see schools in Africa prioritize STEM curriculum. This in part account for the reason there is poor advancement in technology in Africa. The gender bias and gap in Africa is too wide, but we take the bull by the horn and plan for a future where more girls in Africa will become STEM professionals because we know that STEM is the future!