Empower girls to excel in STEM – Ms Fertik

The government has been urged to create a conducive atmosphere in schools nationwide that empowers young girls to explore and excel in Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) related subjects.

According to the Public Diplomacy Counselor at the Embassy of the United States of America (USA) in Ghana, Ms Emily S. Fertik, the Keynote Speaker for the event,  STEM education holds paramount importance in shaping the future of individuals and societies alike.

Speaking at the launch of GirledUp Ghana, a STEM centered NGO in Accra yesterday, she noted that by cultivating skills in STEM, individuals would be equipped with the tools to navigate and contribute meaningfully to an increasingly complex and technologically-driven world.

Insufficient exposure to science and math during childhood, she said, could lead to feelings of intimidation and a lack of interest in pursuing careers related to science.

Ms Fertik further stressed the need to carefully evaluate information instead of just going along with social trends, “adding that in science, sharing what you have learned in different ways helps bring people together and hence it is important to add the “Arts” components when discussing STEM issues so advocated for STEAM and not just STEM.

The Founder of GirledUp Ghana, Dr. Justina Onumah revealed the organization’s ongoing efforts to change the story for young girls considering science, technology engineering and mathematics education.

“We are planting a seed today that will bear fruits in the future by opening up possibilities in STEM and even beyond, through mentorship, skill development, and resources provided by GirledUp Ghana.”

“This approach involves supporting girls with mentors, building their skills, and giving them resources early in life,” she added.

Reflecting on her own childhood, the Senior Research Scientist of CSIR-Science & Technology Policy Research Institute, doubling as Founder of GirledUp Ghana noted how limited exposure to career options influenced her choices as a young girl.

Due to societal stereotypes and lack of exposure to diverse career options particularly in sciences, she said she found it challenging to dream beyond conventional roles.

“The story could have changed if I had someone to guide me through the journey, or had seen many scientists who could open up what was possible in the field if I had space and resources to pursue and persist in the field. This is why we at GirledUp Ghana believe in the power of mentorship.”

She emphasized the importance of inspiring girls to bridge the gender-STEM gap, highlighting that women are the world’s largest population and should actively contribute to science. She also noted that the gender-STEM gap is not just a matter of statistical imbalance but a missed opportunity to create solutions from diverse perspectives.

The Dean of the School of Engineering Sciences, University of Ghana, Professor Elsie Effah Kaufmann in her remarks stressed the significance of collaborative endeavors in tackling challenges within the STEM field and the broader world.

CEO of the Technology Development and Transfer Center and Former Director of the Science and Technology Policy Research Institute (STEPRI) of the Council of Science and Industrial Research (CSIR) Dr George Owusu Essegbey urged men to actively support girls/women in pursuing and persisting in STEM education and careers. He also emphasized the need for more women in key roles like scientists, engineers, doctors, and mathematicians while highlighting the importance of viewing collaboration with women as a partnership rather than a competition.

The event was part of the Mandela Washington Fellowship Reciprocal Exchange Programme, sponsored by the United States Department of State with support from the Embassy of the United States in Accra Ghana, University of Delaware and Girls Inc of Delaware. The US Embassy, Ghana was represented by Ms Emily Fertik, the Public Diplomacy Counselor, Ms Laneice Brooker, the Cultural Affairs Attache and Ms Chantel Bekoe, the Exchange Alumni Coordinator. Representing the University of Delaware was Dr Oyenike Olabisi, Professor of Biological Sciences and Director of the Mandela Washington Fellowship Programme at the Institute, Ms Amara Galileo, a PhD Student. Ms Yolanda Curtis, CEO of Girls Inc. of Delaware also represented Girls Inc. of Delaware as partners for the event. Dr Christina Wesolek from Avian Haven was also part of the US team that supported the event.

By Stephanie Birikorang and Agnes Owusu