The 6th Girls’ Camp organised by Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Ghana (WiSTEMGh) has ended in Kumasi with Senior High School students showcasing innovative projects that demonstrated how science can be applied to everyday challenges.

The week-long camp, held at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), brought together more than 300 girls from 30 schools across five regions.

Participants were grouped and tasked to develop practical solutions to everyday problems, culminating in a presentation at the closing ceremony.

Among the prototypes showcased were water filtration systems and biodegradable plastics, mosquito traps, leather footwear products and solar-powered mobile phone chargers.

The Solar IT team, which developed a device that uses solar panels to charge phones, emerged overall winner.

Their teachers and facilitators received special recognition for guiding the girls through the process, while all participants of leading groups also went home with prizes and souvenirs.

One of the founders and General Secretary of WiSTEMGh, Prof. Mrs. Mercy Badu, said the initiative is about sparking passion for science rather than forcing it.

“Back in the days, when someone was brilliant, they were forced to study science, but that is not really the case. It’s about passion and love for the field,” she explained.

She emphasized that awarding prizes for the girls’ projects was essential in sustaining the interest of both students and mentors in advancing STEM education.

“Receiving recognition for their projects will hopefully inspire them more. When they see that their ideas and hard work are valued, it boosts their confidence and makes them believe they can go further. That’s what we want to do, to encourage them to chase science not because they have to, but because they love to,” she expressed.

But beyond the awards, it was the life-changing experiences that stood out for many of the girls.

“The organisers especially treat us with respect, even though we are younger. They have really taken care of us. Also, I’ve been able to make friends with students from other schools across the country and I’m mostly happy about that,” said a student from Tepa Senior High School.

“They have really empowered us and for me like this, I’m now really really sure about what I want to do in future and how I want to do it. I’m very grateful to have been part of this camp,” a participant from Mfantsiman Senior High School said.

“There are lots of courses I could specialise in that I was not aware of until now. We have spoken to women who are doing well in their field and I’m very inspired,” a student from Serwaa Kobi Senior High also added.

The projects, according to organisers, reflect the creativity of the students and the importance of exposing young people to hands-on science.

The closing ceremony rounded off a week of mentorship, socialization, industrial tours and experiential learning aimed at demystifying STEM and preparing the next generation of innovators.