Students selected from 20 Senior High School in Ashanti and Bono Regions, ended Science, Technology, and Engineering and Mathematics Camp in Kumasi.

The focus of the five-day residential session was to provide mentorship and demystify the study of science-based courses and Maths among female students in Senior High Schools

It was organised by Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Ghana, WiSTEM Gh. and Office of the KNUST Vice-Chancellor.

Read more: WiSTEM GH, GH Scientific organise girls STEM camp

Ten schools from Bono Region joined last year’s all-Ashanti school, in fulfilment of recommendation for inclusion of more less endowed schools.

 “Last year the students suggested we include students from less endowed schools since they need to be motivated and inspired and so the Vice-Chancellor directed us to 200 of which 60% are from less endowed schools,” president of WiSTEM Gh. Professor Ibok Oduro recounted.

Building and Road Research Institute, Crops Research Institute, Tradewinds Chemist, Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, DBS Roofing separately hosted the students.

Teachers also took part in mentoring exercise supervised by members of WiSTEM GH.

Vodafone, a collaborator, received participants on a tour of its regional headquarters in Kumasi.

The director of Digital Transformation and Commercial Operations of Vodafone, Angela Mensah-Poku, highlighted the company’s social intervention initiatives.

They include Vodafone Scholars Programme, National Coding Programme and Female Engineers  Scholarship Programme.

“Our Vodafone Scholars Programme gives full scholarship to girls in SHS to peruse three-year programmes in STEM in leading universities in Ghana,” she emphasized.

 WiSTEM member, Professor Rudith King, believes awareness through the provision of more opportunities for women to explore their potentials will benefit the country.

She stated, “we need more awareness to increase the number of girls that enter science.”

Students were happy the programme has broadened their outlook on science-based courses.

“I’ve learnt that there are many good things in women the government can explore to improve on the economy,” said Rose Amponsah of Nkawie SECTECH.

Silvia Sarpong of St. Monica’s SHS also learnt not to judge herself or others by their friends’ talents “we should know our goals and talents and persevere.”

“It has made me realize that if you offer science it’s not only medicine you can do but you can enter into many career opportunities in Physics and Maths,” said Gloria Adoma Kwakye of Yaa Asantewaa Girls SHS.

Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation provided laboratory coats, books and other materials for the camp.

Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Promasidor Ghana Limited, Cal Bank and Yoo Fresh Yoghurt sponsored the event.