Oracle Academy, in collaboration with the Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT (AITI-KACE), hosted an Inspiring Girls in STEM mentoring session in Accra on October 4, 2024. The event, held at AITI-KACE, which operates under the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation, Ghana, brought together 30 young women from selected public high schools in Accra, aiming to inspire and empower the next generation of female leaders in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The session was designed to ignite the girls’ interest in STEM careers, build confidence, and show them the opportunities available to them through education and technology.

The event kicked off with inspiring opening remarks by Emmanuella Godlove Osei from AITI-KACE, who encouraged the girls to embrace the world of technology and innovation. She highlighted the importance of STEM education for national development and the critical role women play in shaping the future of the sector.

The first keynote speaker, MaameSerwaa Amoakohene, delivered an insightful talk on “Building Confidence in STEM: Embracing Your Unique Identity.” As an identity coach and mentor, she spoke passionately about the importance of self-awareness and confidence in breaking stereotypes and overcoming barriers in the male-dominated fields of STEM. Her message emphasized that embracing one’s unique strengths and skills can pave the way for success in STEM-related careers.

The second keynote, titled “The Economic Power of STEM: How Girls Can Drive Innovation and Growth,” was presented by Sylvia Adomadzi-Longdon, an economist and international development consultant. Sylvia shed light on the vast economic potential of STEM industries and how young women can be catalysts for innovation, economic growth, and social transformation. Her talk inspired the attendees to think about their future roles as innovators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers in society.

One of the highlights of the day was the panel session on “Girls in STEM: Leading the Future.” Moderated by Bekere Amassoma, Oracle Academy Program Manager SSA, the panel featured an impressive lineup of female leaders in STEM, including:

  • Sylvia Adomadzi-Longdon, International Development Consultant
  • MaameSerwaa Amoakohene, Identity Coach and Curator, Finding the Person Called Me
  • Mandy Ocansey, Data Scientist, Cognate Systems, Ghana
  • Emmanuella Osei, Digital Marketer, Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT (AITI-KACE)

The panelists shared their personal journeys, challenges, and triumphs in STEM fields, offering valuable insights to the girls in attendance. They discussed the importance of perseverance, mentorship, and continuous learning while also highlighting the exciting possibilities that STEM careers offer.

The event concluded with an interactive question and answer segment, where the girls had the opportunity to engage directly with the panelists with questions. The speakers offered practical advice and reassured the girls that with dedication, they can achieve great heights in STEM fields.

Oracle Academy is committed to continuing diversity and inclusion to bridge the gender gap in STEM and provide more opportunities for girls to explore and excel in technology-driven careers.

Learn more about Oracle Academy here.

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