Sibo the Engineer: Empowering Girls in STEM

Sibo the Engineer Project: Empowering Girls in STEM Through Education and Innovation

In a world where women are still underrepresented in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), one project is on a mission to change that narrative. The Sibo the Engineer Project, founded by Tsitsi, aims to empower young children, particularly girls aged 8-12, to love STEM from a tender age.

“We aim to catch them young so as to cultivate their passion for STEM,” Patuma Silamu from STEM explorerz shared.

She added, “Through our project tours, we make sure that 60% of the students are girls. Our project contributes to sustainable development by bridging the gender gap in STEM fields and providing quality education through innovative STEM toys, gear, and animation.”

Innovative Approach

One of the innovative approaches of the project is the use of animation to make learning about Engineering fun and relatable for children. Site visits to locations mentioned in the Sibo the Engineer books also spark interest and inspiration in STEM for the young participants. The project’s focus on inclusivity extends to cultural inclusion with characters named in local languages, promoting gender equality and bridging cultural gaps.

The Project founded by Michelle Maphosa and Wadzanayi Kimberley Bwanya was recently awarded the Alumni TIES Grant, allowing them to take 120 “little engineers” on a trip to Criterion Water Works to learn about how water is treated. The day will include a watch party of the Sibo the Engineer animation, a workshop, and fun quizzes for the students.

It has been the most beautiful three days full of adventure, fun, learning and curiosity. From bright smiles to inquisitive questions it is safe to say the future is indeed bright. This is not goodbye but the start of a new adventure. And it's a Wrap!#AlumniTIES#Stemexplorerz pic.twitter.com/ukhemunjCB
— STEM explorerz (@STEMexplorerz) March 22, 2024

Improved Educational Experience

Silamu said that the opportunity will provide a unique educational experience for these children, with a focus on empowering girls in STEM.

“Education plays a crucial role in fostering sustainable development and stimulating innovation in STEM fields,” said Silamui.

“We hope to inspire women who will be community builders in the future without compromising future needs. We aim to build a community where women are empowered,” she stated.

Funding Challenges

Despite facing challenges like funding and shortages of skilled personnel, the project has been making a positive impact on students, teachers, city council staff members, engineering bodies, and parents. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with six schools already participating in the project this year.

As the Sibo the Engineer Project continues to grow and empower young girls in STEM, the team behind it remains committed to the mission of inspiring the next generation of female engineers and innovators. With a focus on early education and inclusivity, the project is paving the way for a more diverse and gender-balanced future in STEM fields.