STEM Education in Botswana: Girls Getting Geeky

How School Holiday Programs Sparked Learning, Creativity, and Confidence for our after-school program participants in Mochudi Village.

During the April school holidays, the Education Hub hosted an exciting week of interactive learning under the theme “Igniting Curiosity Through Numbers and Discovery!” Over 60 in-school participants were grouped into five teams, with each team nominating representatives for daily competitions and activities.

The week launched with an intense Maths and Science Quiz on Day 1, where learners showcased their knowledge of numbers, operations, biology, chemistry, and physics. This was followed by Day 2’s collaborative Mathematics Challenge, where teams worked together to solve real-life problems, and the Science Spelling Bee tested their grasp of scientific vocabulary.

Day 3 focused on communication and critical thinking through a lively debate tournament. Participants tackled relatable topics such as “Should school start late in the morning or early?” which sparked passionate arguments grounded in their daily experiences. They also completed a reflective essay titled “If I were omnipotent, what would I change in the world?” The responses revealed deep empathy and bold visions for a better world, showing that these young minds are not only academically capable but socially aware.

The excitement continued on Day 4 with an Art Exhibition that allowed participants to creatively express themselves through handmade beaded necklaces, hair scrunchies, and other crafts. Many proudly stated that, with practice, they could turn these hobbies into income-generating skills. This not only boosted their confidence but also planted seeds of entrepreneurship and self-reliance, aligning with our goal of holistic development.

The grand finale on Showcase Day allowed participants to present their science experiments using everyday household items. They explored chemical reactions through volcano eruptions using baking soda and vinegar, witnessed how vinegar can dissolve an eggshell, and created homemade lava lamps. The activities sparked awe and learning, transforming curiosity into discovery. This school holiday program proved that education, when made engaging and hands-on, can inspire a lasting love for learning and innovation.

In conclusion, the program did more than fill the holiday gap, it nurtured confidence, creativity, collaboration, and a deeper interest in science and the world around us. We are proud of each participant and look forward to continuing these empowering experiences in future sessions.

On October 11th, in celebration of International Day of the Girl Child, an inspiring and multifaceted event unfolded, blending a cleanup campaign, and an artistic initiative into one empowering experience. The day began with a spirited cleanup campaign, with the leadership participants. Armed with gloves and trash bags, they combed through the surrounding area, collecting waste and ensuring their environment was clean and inviting. This initial activity set the tone for a day dedicated to sustainability, creativity, and empowerment. 

However, the cleanup effort was not merely about collecting waste; it was an entry point into a larger discussion on environmental sustainability and innovation. After gathering trash, the participants transitioned into an art session where they explored. The collected waste materials became the foundation for creating artistic landscapes. This hands-on activity emphasized upcycling—transforming discarded materials into something valuable—and provided a visual and tangible representation of the "Go Green" message. By repurposing waste into art, the participants showcased how sustainability can be both practical and beautiful. 

The creative session allowed the girls to express their personal views on environmental protection, combining scientific principles of recycling with the emotional power of art. Each artistic piece was a testament to their creativity and a personal statement of their commitment to a greener future. This approach made the "Go Green" initiative memorable, engagingly reinforcing environmental awareness. 

Following the artistic activity, the focus shifted to personal empowerment. As part of the International Day of the Girl Child celebration, the girls were encouraged to create vision boards, illustrating their dreams, goals, and aspirations for the future. Using images, quotes, and symbols, they depicted their ambitions in education, personal growth, and career development. The vision boards were colorful reflections of the girls’ hopes and potential, offering insight into their individual journeys and collective dreams. 

By blending environmental action, and personal development, the session achieved its goal of inspiring the next generation of leaders. The cleanup campaign reinforced the importance of sustainability, while the art and vision board activities allowed the participants to explore their creativity and envision a better future. More importantly, it provided a platform for them to feel heard, valued, and connected to a larger community of girls striving for change. 

As the event concluded, it was clear that the participants had gained more than just knowledge—they had gained confidence, inspiration, and a sense of belonging. The day served as a powerful reminder that when girls are given the tools to learn, create, and lead, they can drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond.