On October 19, 2024, Bountiful STEM Educational Foundation and Bountiful Technologies Ltd. held the 5th Annual Girl Powered STEM Workshop at the Bountiful STEEM Educational Center in Accra to celebrate the International Day of the Girl Child under the theme “Girls’ Vision for the Future.”
Despite global statistics showing that women make up only 35% of STEM graduates and 29% of STEM workers, this initiative is working to change that in Ghana. Since 2019, the Girl Powered STEM Workshop has introduced over 800 girls to the fields of STEM and robotics, helping to ignite an early passion for technology in young women.
Hands-On Learning and Mentorship
The workshop was packed with engaging activities designed to empower participants with STEM knowledge and life skills, including:
- Workshops on Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT): Led by experts from Bountiful Technologies, these sessions introduced the girls to AI applications and IoT basics using tools like BBC Micro: bit and Arduino kits, with real-time demonstrations.
- Career Guidance and Mentorship by Ericsson Team: Women from Ericsson shared career advice, emphasized the importance of mentorship, and encouraged participants to pursue their dreams in tech.
- Engineering and Robotics Challenges: Participants built towers that could withstand simulated earthquakes using VEX IQ kits, which fostered creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
- Fun and Interactive Activities: The girls enjoyed a robot driving challenge with VEX IQ robots, a painting session to express their creativity, and various teamwork exercises like the cups challenge.
Key Highlights and Success Stories
Dr. Anita Asamoah, the event’s chairperson, inspired the girls with her journey in STEM, and Mr. Eric Sackey from the KANNIA Foundation educated them on climate change and environmental protection. The enthusiasm and commitment of all participants reflected the workshop’s success, with activities running smoothly and generating excitement among the young learners.
One attendee shared, “This event showed me that we, as girls, can achieve anything in technology if we put our minds to it.”
Addressing Challenges and Celebrating Achievements
Though a few logistical challenges arose, including unavailable rooms and delayed arrivals, the workshop team adapted swiftly. The event concluded with a sense of achievement, as participants left with new friends, memories, and a deeper understanding of STEM.
The Path Forward for a Diverse Tech Workforce
As Natacha Sangwa, a young coder from Rwanda, aptly stated, “We are the future of technology, and we can achieve a lot. Do not let anyone tell you that you cannot succeed in technology because of your gender.” This workshop has played a pivotal role in laying the foundation for a more inclusive tech environment, giving young women in Ghana the confidence, role models, and experience to explore and lead in the STEM fields.
With the unwavering support of the Bountiful STEM Educational Foundation and its partners, the Girl Powered STEM Workshop is paving the way for more diverse representation and equality in the tech workforce of tomorrow.
