The Keeping Female in STEM Program
About the Project
The Keeping Female in STEM Program is supported by the WiproCares Foundation, dedicated to empowering young Nigerian women to pursue and thrive in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The program aims to close the gender gap in STEM by equipping unemployed female graduates with industry-relevant skills in Data Science, Software Development, and Cybersecurity, while also inspiring secondary school girls to explore STEM education and careers.
Over a one-year period, 45 women from across Nigeria participated in an intensive 18-week training that combined technical learning, mentorship, and practical projects, followed by internships and career development sessions. Through partnerships with leading organizations, the program bridged the gap between education and employment, enabling participants to gain professional certifications, real-world experience, and a supportive network of female STEM professionals.
The program also extended its reach to younger students through step-down training sessions, where participants mentored over 890 secondary school girls across Kwara State, sparking early interest in STEM subjects and dismantling cultural and social barriers that often limit girls’ participation in technology and science.
Our Impact
- Trained and certified 45 female graduates in Data Science, Software Development, and Cybersecurity through an intensive, industry-aligned program.
- Achieved 100% skill acquisition among participants, with 93% reporting that the program met or exceeded their career expectations.
- Secured internship placements for participants in reputable organizations
- Reached and inspired over 890 secondary school girls across Kwara State through interactive STEM workshops and mentoring sessions.
- Recorded 94% increase in participants’ confidence and 96% improvement in career readiness, with trainees applying newly acquired skills in real-world settings.
- Built a network of female STEM advocates and mentors committed to inspiring and supporting the next generation of women in technology.
- Strengthened collaboration between academia, private sector, and civil society to promote inclusive STEM education and employment opportunities for women.
- Contributed to reducing female unemployment and promoting digital inclusion in Nigeria’s evolving technology ecosystem.
Why It Matters
Women remain significantly underrepresented in science and technology fields, limiting diversity, innovation, and economic growth. In Nigeria, only a fraction of women pursue or sustain careers in STEM due to systemic barriers, outdated curricula, and limited access to training opportunities. The Keeping Female in STEM Program addresses these challenges by empowering women with the skills, confidence, and opportunities needed to succeed in the digital economy. Beyond training, it inspires a culture of mentorship and leadership among women, ensuring that today’s beneficiaries become tomorrow’s changemakers, driving equality, innovation, and sustainable development through STEM.
