GIRLS IN STEAM

Problem Statement

Girls and young women in Northern Nigeria face systemic barriers to participating in science, *technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM). Limited access to digital tools, gender norms, and inadequate learning opportunities continue to widen the digital gender divide, restricting girls’ educational and economic prospects.

Target Beneficiaries

● Adolescent girls and young women (15–30 years)
● Secondary school students and school leavers
● Girls from underserved and low-income communities in Kano State

Program Structure & Duration

The Girls in STEAM program is delivered through structured training sessions combining theory
and hands-on practice:
● Digital literacy and foundational tech skills
● Introduction to STEAM concepts
● Content creation and digital tools
● Mentorship, teamwork, and confidence-building sessions

Programs are delivered through:
● School-based trainings
● Community workshops
● Short-term bootcamps and extended learning cycles

Skills & Outcomes

Participants gain:
● Foundational digital and STEAM skills
● Improved confidence in using technology
● Exposure to career pathways in STEAM fields
● Practical skills for education, entrepreneurship, and employment

Program outcomes include:

● Increased participation of girls in digital learning
● Improved digital confidence and competence
● Enhanced readiness for further education or income-generating opportunities

In today’s world, digital skills open doors—to education, to jobs, to a future full of possibilities. Yet, for many girls in underserved communities, especially in places like sub-Saharan Africa, these doors remain closed. Globally, over 65% of girls under 24 lack basic digital skills, and the impact is deeply felt in regions where access to technology is limited, and opportunities for digital literacy are scarce. These gaps not only hinder individual growth but also keep entire communities from reaching their full potential. At Steamledge Community, we believe that every girl deserves a fair shot at success—and that’s where our Girls in STEAM program comes in. Created in partnership with Steamledge Limited, this initiative is more than just a training program. It’s a movement to empower young girls with the digital and tech skills they need to thrive, while inspiring them to dream big and pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). Our journey has taken us to schools like Government Secondary School (GSS) Dangana, GSS WTC, Kano Capital School, and many more across both public and private sectors. In every classroom, we’ve seen the same spark—the excitement in a girl’s eyes when she writes her first line of code, designs her first digital flyer, or realizes that she too can be a tech innovator. These aren’t just lessons; they’re life-changing moments. We engage with over 2,500 girls, providing hands-on training, mentorship, and real-world exposure to STEAM careers. From basic digital literacy to more advanced tech applications, we ensure every participant walks away with skills they can use—and the confidence to use them. The Girls in STEAM program isn’t just about numbers; it’s about stories. It’s about Aisha from GSS WTC who discovered a love for graphic design, or Fatima from Kano Capital who now dreams of becoming a software engineer. These girls are breaking barriers, challenging norms, and shaping futures—not just for themselves but for their families and communities. We know that change doesn’t happen overnight, but with every girl we reach, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive digital future. The Girls in STEAM initiative shows the power of community-driven solutions and what’s possible when we invest in girls. Together, we’re not just teaching skills—we’re lighting the path for the next generation of leaders, creators, and problem-solvers.

Combatting FGM Through Digital Skills

With support from UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, Steamledge Community implemented Combatting FGM Through Digital Skills—an initiative designed to equip adolescent girls with the digital knowledge and tools to advocate against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). While Steamledge was not an implementing partner, funding disbursed via Empowering Voices Africa (EVA) enabled the team to train 120 girls—50 in Kano and 70 in Jigawa, at Dutse Mega Secondary School and College Demonstration Senior Secondary School, Gumel.

Training Activities

The program was hands-on and practical, organized into four core activities:
  1. Basic Computing Skills & Internet Safety Girls learned essential computer operations, internet browsing, email setup, and how to stay safe online—building a foundation for digital confidence.
  2. Social Media Management Participants explored platforms like Facebook and Instagram, gaining skills to manage accounts and engage effectively with digital audiences.
  3. Social Media Strategy Development This phase focused on advocacy planning. Girls created content calendars and campaign goals for the #EndFGMNow movement.
  4. Campaign Launch & Audience Engagement Participants launched the #EndFGMNow campaign online, posting content, engaging with comments and DMs, and sparking conversation on ending FGM.

Success Story: Aisha from Gumel

Before the training, Aisha from College Demonstration Senior Secondary School in Gumel had never used social media for advocacy. But through this program, she learned to create powerful content and used her voice online to challenge FGM in her community. Her posts reached hundreds, sparking dialogue among peers and elders—proving that empowered girls can inspire real change. This initiative is a testament to UNFPA’s mission—ensuring every young person has the skills and support to stand against harmful practices and build safer, healthier communities.