A group of women scientists from the University of Nairobi celebrated the International Day of Women and Girls in Science at Ole Tipis Girls Secondary School in Narok County.
Led by Dr. Esther Kanduma, a senior lecturer in Biochemistry at the University, they said the day is set aside to recognize and celebrate the contribution of women in science and technology.
Dr. Kanduma explained that this year’s celebration theme focuses on unpacking Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers and amplifying women’s voices in science.
She also said women make up only 30 percent of the workforce in science-related careers, stressing the importance of supporting initiatives that promote gender balance in STEM fields.
“Currently, only 30 percent of women are in science-related careers,” Dr. Kanduma stated.
Dr. Kanduma further emphasized that girls in schools often believe they are weak in science, making this outreach program important and timely for inspiring young girls in education.
The don explained that the mentorship program aims to inspire young women and girls while raising awareness about career opportunities in STEM.
Lady Ololokula, the principal of Ole Tipis Girls, credited the program with tremendously transforming the school’s performance in science subjects and motivating the students.
She revealed that the school has improved its mean score from 7.1 to 7.5 points, marking a significant improvement in national exams.
“In last year’s KCSE results, 10 girls scored grade A-minus, many of whom were part of this mentorship program. This initiative has also contributed to more students joining public universities,” added Ololokula.
The principal also explained that, as the implementation of Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) gains momentum, the school is one of the few in the county that will be offering STEM programs.
Professor Esther Maina, a Biochemist at the University of Nairobi and a member of Ole Tipis Girls’ Board of Management, noted that the school is the first to benefit from the program, which started in 2019.
She urged parents and other stakeholders to embrace STEM careers to inspire the next generation of scientists.
“The future is science, and the future is technology,” Prof. Maina emphasized, highlighting the importance of preparing girls for STEM careers.
By John Kaleke
