Too many girls and young women are held back by biases, social norms, and expectations that shape their education and career choices. They are particularly underrepresented in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics). Globally, only 35% of STEM students in higher education are women, and less than 30% of STEM careers are occupied by women (UNESCO). To close this gap, Gray Network, in partnership with Plan International Ghana and with the support of Ghana Education Service (GES), launched a STEM sensitization program across five districts in the Volta and Oti Region . The program targeted junior high and senior high school girls, aiming to build awareness, confidence, and interest in STEM subjects and careers.
- STEM Presentations & Mentorship Talks – Female students were inspired through talks on STEM opportunities and career pathways.
- Simple Science Demonstrations – Hands-on experiments to make learning fun and practical.
- Career Counseling – Students were introduced to career paths in engineering, ICT, applied sciences, medicine, agriculture, fashion technology, and more.
- STEM Clubs Formation – Established in participating schools to nurture continuous interest in science and technology.
- Practical Sessions on Coding & Technology – Students learned how coding shapes the digital world, critical thinking, and entrepreneurship.
- Awareness Creation – Both students and teachers were sensitized on the importance of STEM in personal and community development.
- 3,374 adolescent girls
- 1,287 young women
- Teachers and school administrators across five districts in Volta Region and Oti.
- Greater awareness of STEM subjects, careers, and opportunities among female students.
- Formation of STEM Clubs in participating schools.
- 137 adolescent girls enrolled in STEM courses at senior high schools.
- 20 young women pursued STEM programs at tertiary level.
- Students acquired hands-on STEM knowledge and career counseling.
- Participants developed a positive attitude toward STEM, challenging gender stereotypes.
- Teachers also improved their knowledge and commitment to supporting girls in STEM.
Girls are the future scientists, innovators, and leaders our communities need. Yet, harmful gender norms and lack of exposure continue to limit their potential. By equipping girls with knowledge, confidence, and mentorship in STEM, this project is breaking barriers, creating equal opportunities, and inspiring a generation of female innovators who will drive social and economic transformation in Ghana and beyond.
“The program has empowered me to realize that engineering courses can be read by girls.”
– Erica, 15 years
“Through the STEM program, I got to know that technology involves the use of tools, making things work, and identifying issues.”
– Portia , 15 years
“Through this program, I now understand what STEM means. But we think a modernized STEM mini-lab will help us as students for effective practical lessons and encourage more girls.”
– Teresa, 15 years
“I am exposed now. I want to be a medical doctor.”
– Praise, 14 years
“I was enlightened during the STEM sensitization program. I want to be a doctor, but I will be happy if I could get a scholarship since my parents are poor.”
– Sophia, 15 years
“The program helped me to see that mathematics is not only about exams but also about problem-solving in everyday life.”
– Selorm Adjoa, 14 years
“I now want to pursue ICT. I realized coding can help me create my own business online.”
– Emefa Mawusi, 16 years
“It enlightens us on the relevance of STEM in Girl Child Education.”
– Matilda, 14 years
“It helped me identify my future profession.”
– Mavis, 14 years