OWSD UNIPORT Branch Nigeria concludes 2025 TechGirls Bootcamp

December 14, 2024 to March 8, 2025Empowering Young Women in STEM: The OWSD TechGirls BootCamp 2025 Story The Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), University of Port Harcourt Branch, launched the TechGirls BootCamp 2025 from December 14, 2024, to March 8, 2025, with the goal of bridging the gender gap in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The initiative targeted 20 secondary schools located around the university environment, inviting 10 outstanding female students from each school to participate. Following a rigorous selection process, 2 top-performing students from each school advanced to a 6-week intensive training program. The BootCamp exposed participants to innovative STEM skills, including codeless web development, artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, and programming. Through hands-on projects, teamwork, and assignments, the students applied their knowledge to real-world challenges, fostering creativity and problem-solving abilities. Despite initial participation from 20 schools, 16 schools completed the program, underscoring the commitment and enthusiasm of both students and educators. The program concluded with a grand finale on International Women’s Day, March 8, where participants showcased their projects and achievements. Awards, gadgets, and cash prizes were presented to outstanding students and their supportive teachers. The success of the TechGirls BootCamp 2025 highlights the transformative power of early STEM exposure and the importance of empowering young women with the tools to innovate, lead, and thrive in a technology-driven world.

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Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) University of Port Harcourt Branch

TechGirls BootCamp 2025 from 14th December 2024 to 8th March 2025

Empowering Young Women in STEM: The OWSD TechGirls BootCamp 2025 Story

In a bid to bridge the gender gap in STEM fields, the OWSD TechGirls BootCamp Program was launched with a mission to empower young women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The program's journey began with the selection of 20 secondary schools around university environments, where letters of invitation were sent to participate in this groundbreaking initiative.

Identifying Brilliant Minds

The response was overwhelming, with 10 female students from each school selected to participate in the program. A rigorous selection test was administered to identify the most talented and dedicated students. After a thorough evaluation, 2 students from each school were selected to move forward to the next phase.

Intensive Training

The selected students underwent an intensive 6-week training program, where they were introduced to cutting-edge technologies such as building codeless websites, machine learning models, AI, robotics, and programming. The training was designed to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in STEM fields.

Hands-on Experience

Throughout the program, students were given assignments and tasks to work on, allowing them to apply the concepts learned during the training. Each school was also given a project to work on, which helped to foster teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Commitment and Dedication

Although 20 schools were initially selected,  16 schools remained consistent throughout the program, demonstrating their commitment and dedication to the initiative. This speaks volumes about the passion and enthusiasm of the students and their teachers.

Grand Finale

The program culminated in a grand finale, which coincided with International Women's Day celebrations on March 8. The event was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the students, who showcased their projects and skills to a wider audience.

Awards and Recognition

The students were awarded gadgets, cash prizes, and other gifts in recognition of their outstanding performance. Their teachers were also appreciated for their role in nurturing and supporting the students' interest in STEM.

Conclusion

The OWSD TechGirls BootCamp Program has set a shining example of how young women can be empowered to excel in STEM fields. By providing them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and support, we can unlock their potential and pave the way for a brighter future. The program's success is a testament to the power of collaboration and dedication, and we look forward to seeing the impact it will have on the lives of these young women.

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