The Higher Education, Economic Transformation (HEET) project at the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology has a strong mission in supporting and promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation (STEMi-Africa clubs) by providing financial support to assist in the initial kick-off of the clubs to enable new clubs to access resources, improve programming, increase participation, and encourage STEM careers, Community investment and supporting education.
Speaking during the outreach program sponsored by HEET Project at Longido District in Arusha Region , NM-AIST STEMi Mentor Dr. Neema Mduma said that the STEMi-Africa is an initiative aims to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and Africa Agenda 2063 by promoting increased enrollment in STEMi-related subjects and careers, particularly among African women.
“In this project we succeeded in launching STEMi clubs in three secondary schools which are Longido Secondary school, Namanga Secondary School and Engarenaibor Secondary school the goal was to ensure the students and teachers have increased interest and enrollment in STEM-related subjects and careers among students, access to hands-on learning opportunities through practical and engaging activities that can help students understand and apply STEM concepts “said Dr. Neema Mduma
She added that critical thinking and problem-solving skills, essential for success in STEM fields , mentorship and coaching opportunities for students to learn from experienced professionals in STEM fields and community of students with a shared interest in STEM, which can foster collaboration, teamwork, and a sense of belonging.
The main goal of STEMi-Africa ta NM-AIST is to engage diverse students in conversations around Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation (STEMi) to introduce them to STEMi professionals and highlight the importance of STEMi role models and stories. The primary goal is increased recruitment, retention, and a sense of belonging in STEMi fields.