Less than 20% of women in Ghana graduate from academic disciplines related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). However, a recent boot camp organized by Women in STEM (WiSTEM) at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has sparked a growing interest in STEM among young girls.
The 2024 WiSTEM KNUST Girls’ Camp, which hosted over 300 girls from 30 senior high schools nationwide, provided participants with hands-on experience and insights into STEM opportunities. The camp aims to bridge the gender gap in STEM fields, where women remain significantly underrepresented due to systemic barriers, stereotypes, and limited resources.
WiSTEM’s efforts included hosting girls from senior high schools in the Ashanti and Western North regions, encouraging them to consider careers in STEM and leadership positions. The camp targets students pursuing general science and related subjects, providing a platform to nurture their interests and skills in STEM disciplines.
Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, highlighted the importance of female representation in STEM. She stressed the role of community support and male allies in achieving gender equality in these fields. “We need a community that believes in our abilities and encourages our aspirations,” she stated. Professor Dickson urged participants to make the most of the camp’s opportunities, build robust networks, and seek mentors to guide their career paths.
Prof. Mercy Badu, General Secretary of WiSTEM, emphasized the transformative impact of investing in girls’ education in science. She stated, “Investing in girls means creating pathways for their success, providing them with access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities that will allow them to thrive in STEM. This means equipping them with the skills, confidence, and mindset to dream big, innovate, and lead.”
According to Prof. Badu, empowering girls in STEM can have far-reaching effects, enabling them to contribute to their communities, enhance their families’ economic prospects, and become leaders driving change. “The ripple effect of this investment is immense,” she added
The five-day event, themed “Accelerating Progress: Investing in Girls through STEM Education,” featured counselling and mentoring sessions, field trips, and project presentations. It was held at the KNUST campus and sponsored by Stanbic Bank, with support from KNUST, the Ghana Education Service, and the Responsible Artificial Intelligence Lab (RAIL).
Aya Ayettey, Head of Quality Assurance and Customer Service at Stanbic Bank, reinforced the importance of mentorship and resources in nurturing girls’ potential in STEM. “Through initiatives like this boot camp, we are not just teaching girls about science and technology; we are helping them envision themselves as scientists, engineers, and innovators,” she said.
The KNUST WiSTEM Girls’ Camp continues to serve as a vital platform for inspiring young girls to pursue careers in STEM, breaking down barriers, and fostering a generation of female leaders in science and technology.
