STEM Education in Botswana: Girls Getting Geeky

STEM took a turn this quarter with a focus on computer lessons, building boys’ and girls’ information technology skills for future use either in employment or business. Several groups rotate through the computer lab. Before each session participants are briefed on the lesson objectives followed by tutorials then a practical. On average there are 60 children and 70 youth who attend computer sessions a week.

Basic computing skills and using programs such as Microsoft Office Word, PowerPoint and Excel. Mastering the basics is critical for the students to attain jobs. In usual Stepping Stones International’s style the computer lessons are combined with personal development. The children and young adults research topics on health, peer pressure, interviewing, resume writing, relationships and present the topics to their peers. The added value is that they have the opportunity to become more fluent in English while presenting.  

2019 computer lessons started off with a bang because the children learned about computer coding. This is the most exciting part to them as they get to see how animations and television programs for chlidren are created. Coding was introduced to them to show it is possible for them to choose coding career and can be done by everyone.

 At the end of the coding session, Thato (changed name), 15 years old jumped up and said, " I know what I want to be when I grow up, a coder!"  He continued as if the epiphany would never end, "I am going to make movies and code the characters and code their actions and code....everything!" 

Links:

• Stepping Stones International

• Photo Fun in Computers (PDF)