After-School STEM clubs for girls
The Visiola Foundation After-School STEM Clubs for Girls is a transformative learning program designed to equip secondary school girls with foundational skills in robotics, database managent system web development, and mobile app development. Through hands-on projects, interactive sessions, and guided mentorship, students are introduced to the world of technology in a way that is both practical and inspiring.
The program is currently implemented across 45 secondary schools within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, making its impact both wide-reaching and community-driven. Each club session typically runs from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., depending on the schedule allocated by each school, ensuring that students have ample time for immersive, focused learning.
As part of the curriculum, students are introduced to computer programming using Scratch, a beginner-friendly platform that helps them understand core programming concepts in a fun and engaging way. They are given tasks and assignments designed to challenge their thinking, encourage problem-solving, and spark creativity. These activities not only build technical skills but also nurture curiosity and innovation.
Beyond technical training, the After-School STEM Club is intentional about shaping mindset. The program aims to instill a strong sense of responsibility in students, encouraging them to see challenges within their communities as opportunities for impact rather than obstacles to avoid. By leveraging the power of robotics, technology, and IT, students are empowered to think critically, create solutions, and contribute meaningfully to their environment.
Ultimately, the importance of this program lies in its ability to bridge the gender gap in STEM by empowering young girls to see themselves as creators, innovators, and future leaders in technology. It builds confidence, strengthens critical thinking, and equips participants with skills that are essential for success in today’s digital world—preparing them not just for careers, but for lifelong impact.
Objectives of the After-school STEM clubs:
- Improved attitudes toward STEM fields and careers, while tackling inhibiting gender stereotypes.
- Increased STEM knowledge and skills, evidenced by improved academic performance.
- Increased confidence in studying STEM subjects.
- Increased number of young women graduating from university with STEM degrees.
- Increased number of women leading successful careers in the STEM fields.
- Increased number of female innovators tackling important challenges to improve socio-economic development in Nigeria and Africa.
The Visiola Foundation’s after-school STEM Clubs For Girls are customized around the core foundational literacies, competencies, and character qualities required for success in the 21st century. The content of the program is designed to complement the school’s academic instruction, with emphasis on Math, English, and Science.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:
The Visiola Foundation has partnered with the FCT Secondary Education Board to run its high quality after-school STEM Clubs for Girls at 45 public junior and senior high schools in the Federal Capital Territory.
Please, e-mail us at: admin@visiolafoundation.org to find out more or to organize a STEM Club at your school.