Our Project "Ellas programan" is an initiative that is based on the need to offer opportunities for exploration in STEM areas to girls in Costa Rica. According to studies in the country, out of every 10 graduates in these areas, only two are women. This alerts us and motivates us to open empowerment spaces for women in technology so that they have opportunities for professional and economic growth. We provide workshops in robotics and programming to girls and young people 4 years old onwards.
Gender roles are very marked even in our society and many professional positions are badly perceived as not suitable for women. These prejudices can limit social and economic opportunities for women, who need to be aware of their potential.
We believe that spaces for technological exploration and STEM areas should be opened for girls from an early age. "Ellas Programan" is an initiative created by the Quiros Tanzi Foundation to awaken the interest of preschool, primary school and adolescent girls in these areas. In addition, to work on leadership and soft skills such as teamwork, collaboration, problem solving and assertive communication.
We expect that this girls will be able to choose careers in the STEM area if they wish, in addition to innovating with technology from any trade or profession. We intend to also impact the sustainable development goals: End of poverty and, Decent work and economic growth. We believe that these types of initiatives are replicable because they not only impact families, also communities, and knowledge of technology can develop their confidence and initiative to achieve all their goals.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).