INDUSTRY WATCH
WITH THE RISE OF TECH IN TODAY ’ S SOCIETY , IT IS CRUCIAL THAT WE INVEST MORE INTO STEM EDUCATION FOR GIRLS TO BE ABLE TO PURSUE A SUSTAINABLE AND MEANINGFUL CAREER PATH .
FinTech specialist e4 has launched a girls in STEM programme to provide girls in underprivileged areas with the support they need to pursue careers in science , technology , engineering and mathematics ( STEM ) post matric . Cognisant of the gender imbalance present in the science and technology industries worldwide and particularly in sub-Saharan Africa , e4 approached Melisizwe Computer Lab Project , a non-profit that provides schools in need with computer labs and IT skills training , for help with this initiative , with the end goal of uplifting underprivileged female youth and addressing the shortage of female participants in STEM careers .
The programme – in alignment with e4 ’ s resolve to improve the living standards of communities that were previously marginalised and upskill South Africa ’ s youth for the digital age – aims to bring much-needed resources to society ’ s most vulnerable and marginalised group – young , previously disadvantaged females . employment . “ That is an issue that will only grow in time if not addressed now ,” she said .
Officially launched in August , Women ’ s Month , Girls in STEM is an after-school programme designed to peak girl learners ’ interests and motivate them to take up STEM subjects in Grade 10 . It introduces female learners to STEM concepts in Grade 9 , the crucial year before maths and science are dropped by girls as they are viewed by many as boys ’ subjects . This misconception can be attributed to a lack of support from parents and teachers , minimal exposure to the different careers women can enter with STEM subjects , a lack of female role models in these spheres and an unawareness of the ability of technology to transform systems and lives .
The programme is currently recruiting girls from two different schools in Gauteng that Melisizwe Computer Lab Project has previously worked with . Girls are selected based on their attitude and aptitude and given technical training in
Ntombi Mphokane , HR and Transformation Executive , e4 , said she is passionate about getting girls into technology . “ With the rise of tech in today ’ s society , it is crucial that we invest more into STEM education for girls to be able to pursue a sustainable and meaningful career path ,” Mphokane said .
With the digital age upon and technology ever changing , Mphokane said the people are being left behind due to a lack of access to computers and associated skills . Many students have no access to computers and matriculate without knowing how to use a computer or how to type out a CV and apply for
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