Overview
The STEM Program at FIRAT Rwanda is a youth-centered initiative focused on empowering learners with the knowledge, curiosity, and practical skills needed to thrive in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It addresses the gap in early STEM exposure by creating accessible learning experiences and nurturing innovation mindsets among school-age children and young adults.
This initiative is not only about increasing STEM literacy — it’s about equipping future African problem-solvers and inventors with the tools and inspiration to tackle real-world challenges in their communities.
Functions and Roles
1. STEM Clubs and Learning Circles:
Establish and support STEM clubs in schools and communities, providing learners with structured opportunities for experiments, discovery, and team-based challenges.
2. Curriculum Enrichment and Teacher Support:
Enhance existing curricula with hands-on STEM content while training educators to deliver learner-friendly science and technology lessons using local materials and examples.
3. Innovation Exposure and Practical Learning:
Connect students with real-world STEM applications through labs, maker spaces, innovation bootcamps, science fairs, and mentorships with professionals in STEM careers.
4. Equity and Inclusion in STEM:
Promote participation from underserved groups — including rural learners, girls, and students with disabilities — ensuring that everyone has a chance to explore and excel in STEM.
5. Career Pathway Awareness:
Help students connect classroom learning with career opportunities by introducing them to local STEM professionals, technical institutions, universities, and vocational pathways.
6. Community Engagement and STEM Advocacy:
Use exhibitions, parent engagement forums, and public events to raise awareness of the importance of STEM for national development and community well-being.
Key Activities
- Formation and facilitation of school-based STEM clubs
- Annual National STEM Challenge and Innovation Fair
- Weekend “Young Inventors” workshops and mobile science labs
- Teacher training programs in low-cost, high-impact STEM teaching
- Production and distribution of STEM learning kits and guides
- STEM career talk sessions with professionals in engineering, data science, and biotechnology
- Field trips to universities, tech hubs, and science centers
Contact and Engagement
To start a STEM club, sponsor an innovation challenge, or get involved, please contact:
Email: [email protected]
Partner with Us: [email protected]
Address: STEM Education Office, FIRAT Rwanda, Kigali Innovation City, Rwanda