The University of Nairobi (UoN) has launched a transformative initiative aimed at empowering young girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Speaking after spearheading the launch, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Jesang Hutchinson, said launch of the UoN Women in STEM Association and Sisters Science Safaris program marks a pivotal moment in addressing the gender disparity in scientific fields.
She added that the initiative seeks to break down the barriers that have historically kept women underrepresented in the sciences.
This program comes at a critical time when women still represent only one-third of the global workforce in scientific research.
The situation is even more dire at the highest levels of academia, where women occupy just 12% of seats in national science academies.
Prof. Hutchinson encouraged the students challenging them to work hard, dream bigger.
“Your enrollment in STEM is no accident. You are exactly where you belong. The path for the girl child isn’t always easy, but excellence is born from grit.” The VC said.
The “Sisters Science Safari” program targets 40 secondary school girls from Kajiado, Narok, and Machakos counties areas with schools facing significant resource challenges and low enrollment rates.
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The program aims to dispel the myth that STEM is a “no-go zone” for women, provide mentorship opportunities through established women scientists and early-career researchers, and bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical, real-world applications.
The event, held from April 23 to 24, 2026, at St. George’s Girls High School and the University of Nairobi, features a dynamic curriculum designed to make science engaging and accessible.
The event underscores the growing importance of STEM disciplines in the global economy, particularly as technology and artificial intelligence (AI) take center stage in shaping the future job market.
Educators said that if young girls do not engage in shaping the future of STEM now, they risk being left behind in the evolving digital economy.
In addition to the University of Nairobi, the initiative enjoys the support of a diverse coalition of partners, including AFRITEC, Advancement, and the French Embassy.
By creating a voyage of discovery for the young participants, the university is not only teaching science but also fostering a new generation of leaders poised to explore and drive future scientific innovation.
Through this initiative, the University of Nairobi aims to inspire a lasting change, helping to create a more inclusive and diverse future in STEM fields.
By Obegi Malack
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