The Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Ghana (WiSTEMGh) of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology under the auspices of the Vice-Chancellor has held the third edition of STEM Camp for selected Categories of Senior High Schools (SHS) in Ghana. The four-day Camp themed, ‘Equipping females with a complete skill set for addressing future developmental challenges’ brought together about Two Hundred (200) female science students from 23 Senior High Schools across the country.
Opening the camp, the President of WiSTEM, Professor Ibok Nsa Oduro stated that WiSTEM Ghana seeks to empower young ladies to study STEM programmes to bridge the gender gaps in the country with regards to STEM education. As such, WiSTEM has over the years, collaborated with stakeholders to organise interactive and educative programmes to connect experts and professionals to younger women to pursue a career in STEM.
She intimated that since August 2018, WiSTEM Ghana has successfully hosted over three hundred (300) girls from various Senior High Schools. She, therefore, paid tribute to the former Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kwasi Obiri-Danso, who has contributed immensely to the growth of the association; the Vice-Chancellor, Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, and the Provost of the College of Science, Professor Leonard Amekudzi for their unwavering support.
Speaking on the relevance of science, she emphasised that the world understands how the universe work and can predict future happenings such as earthquakes, droughts, and rainfalls. Also, humanity has made breakthroughs during pandemics through Scientists, and made technological advancements in Architecture, Agriculture, Sport, and Security through the knowledge gained in science.
She expressed the hope that this year’s camp will achieve its objective of providing an effective forum for students, tutors, and practitioners to advance knowledge and resources for Ghana’s development.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor as the Chairman of the event, the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ellis Owusu-Dabo in his address stated that as part of the Vice-Chancellor’s mid-term strategy, KNUST should achieve parity for the male to female enrolment, especially in STEM, by 2026. He urged the students to strive for excellence in knowledge and exhibit good attitudes and humility. This he believes would make them distinct.
Speaking on the theme, the Member of Parliament for Asokwa Constituency, Honourable Patricia Appiagyei stated that the world is currently facing unprecedented challenges socially, economically, and environmentally. These challenges would present humanity with a myriad of new opportunities for technological advancements which are likely to widen gender inequalities and accelerate resource depletion. ‘It is therefore in the right order to organise the camp to equip students to develop the right skill set and proficiency in STEM to address future challenges.
She encouraged the students to read widely, make effective use of the various technologies available to them, and equip themselves with best practices. ‘Set clear goals for yourself, know the right reason, the right season and time for everything you do,’ she added.
The 2022 edition of the Camp was sponsored by Stanbic Bank, and supported by KNUST, Ghana Education Service, Responsible Artificial Intelligence Lab (RAIL), and individual benefactors.
