KsTU, British Council & Northern Regional College Inspire Young Girls Through STEM Outreach
Picture: Team of Educators from British Council, NRC and KsTU in a group photograph with some of the students from the participating schools
In a significant stride toward advancing gender inclusivity in engineering, the British Council, in partnership with Northern Regional College (Northern Ireland) and Kumasi Technical University (KsTU), organised a STEM outreach programme under the Engineering for Girls initiative. The programme reached several schools in Kumasi, including Asem Mixed School, St. Cyprian’s Anglican School and St. Augustine Anglican School, among others.
A distinguished delegation visited the schools, led by Ing. Prof. Mrs. Abena Agyeiwaa Obiri-Yeboah, Pro Vice-Chancellor of KsTU, along with Ing. Prof. Julius Cudjoe Ahiekpor (HOD Chemical Engineering), Mrs. Felicia Tettey (Deputy Director of Guidance and Counselling Directorate), Madam Rita Gyawu (Industrial Liason Officer), Lynsey Sloan (Head of Department, Health, Sport and Care, Northern Regional College), Miss Linda Okyere, Mrs. Maura Amoakohene, Mr. Williams Anane.
The primary aim of the outreach was to increase awareness of the importance of engineering and to encourage young girls to explore careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). The sessions sought to challenge long-standing gender stereotypes and inspire female students to pursue academic and professional paths in STEM disciplines.
In her keynote address, Ing. Prof. Mrs. Obiri-Yeboah, Pro Vice-Chancellor, KsTU highlighted the transformative impact of engineering on society and national development. She urged students to remain focused and dedicated to their academic aspirations.
“Engineering is not limited to any gender. With focus, determination, and hard work, each of you can rise to become an innovator and changemaker,” she said.
The team conducted engaging, interactive sessions exploring various branches of engineering, sharing personal career stories, and showcasing the wide range of opportunities available both locally and internationally. They emphasized the importance of mathematics and science, particularly at the basic education level as critical foundations for success in STEM fields.
The students responded with enthusiasm, asking thoughtful questions and expressing a keen interest in engineering careers. The welcoming and encouraging atmosphere reinforced the central message: girls are equally capable of excelling in technical and scientific fields.
This outreach initiative is part of the British Council’s broader commitment to fostering inclusive education and international collaboration. In partnership with Kumasi Technical University and Northern Regional College, the programme continues to shape a more diverse, innovative, and equitable future workforce.
As a direct outcome of the outreach, plans are underway to establish Engineering for Girls Clubs in the participating schools. The initiative aims to provide a supportive space where young girls can explore engineering concepts, gain hands-on experience, and build confidence in STEM fields. Through regular activities, mentorship, and collaboration, the club will nurture the next generation of female innovators and engineers.
