Girl Up Namibia, a youth organisation, dedicated to empowering youth through STEM education, recently organised a successful event that brought together over 60 high school and university students in Windhoek. In collaboration with SOS Children’s Villages, the event aimed to ignite a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) among the attendees.
The event, named ‘Namibian STEM Stars: Igniting Innovation and Empowering Youth’ provided a hands-on platform for students to interact with accomplished professionals in STEM fields. The students engaged in practical activities, workshops, and discussions led by experts from various sectors, including Minds In Action, Hakoilonga Hamalwa, Moses Kanalelo from JTP Solutions, and Ailly Hamukwaya.
“Observing the remarkable enthusiasm of these young individuals as they embrace the realm of STEM is truly gratifying. Our event underscores our unwavering commitment to nurturing curiosity, fostering creativity, and empowering the upcoming generation of STEM trailblazers,” said Joy Ndeyapo Kapepo, Girl Up Namibia regional leader.
Iyaloo Waendama, a 17-year-old student from Hage Geingob High School, expressed her gratitude for the event, stating that it opened her eyes to the possibilities in STEM careers. “Thank you to the panellists, the discussion was very interesting and I enjoyed it.
Everything was amazing. Looking forward to more innovative events,” she said.
Reflecting on the impactful STEM event, Martha Mathew, (19) from Yetu Yama Namcol, shared her experience.
“I found the STEM event on Saturday to be both captivating and enlightening. The panel discussion stood out for me, particularly when the speakers addressed gender equality, workplace confidence, and overcoming career obstacles. Each speaker’s distinct journey held valuable insights that resonated with me.”
Speakers at the event included technologist Jacobine Amutenya, trade and agriculture expert Maria Lisa Immanuel, medical doctor Shafa Hamutenya, and scientist Dr Eva Pandi Beukes.
The event’s success was made possible by the efforts of the youth organisation, supported by High-Tech Transfer Plaza Select (HTTPS), National Commission on Research, Science and Technology (NCRST), and Coca-Cola Namibia. The organisation aims to extend these educational workshops across the country with the support of NGOs and corporate partners.
“This event marks merely the inception of our efforts to democratize STEM education. Our vision encompasses the expansion of these workshops nationwide, and we’re actively seeking support from both NGOs and corporate partners to propel us forward in equipping young minds for a promising future in STEM,” Kapepo concluded.