How STEMpower is promoting science based knowledge in Rwanda #rwanda #RwOT

Every STEM center consists of a computer and electronics laboratory. By working closely with the higher education institutions that host these STEM centers, the organization guarantees that students obtain hands-on training to supplement their theoretical classroom learning.

So far, STEMpower's presence in Rwanda is already bearing fruits, as many who have attended training sessions at the centers explain.

Victoire Irakoze, a 22-year-old mother, dropped out of school at an early age when she got pregnant, and would always find herself ill-equipped for the job market as a result.

However, STEMpower's free computer literacy program at the Adventist College of Gitwe in Ruhango District has turned around her life after acquiring computer skills. She says that she is now better positioned for job opportunities.

Many people including local community members have benefited from STEMpower initiatives of free-to-attend training programs.

"I literally didn't know how to use a computer, and most of the job opportunities I came across required some basic skills on the same. After completing training at this center, I have the basic computer skills, and I am now more confident and optimistic to apply these skills on the labor market,' she explained.

Irakoze is one of the 131 students and community members who completed computer literacy training at College Adventist de Gitwe in the most recent cohort. Her story showcases the organization's commitment to inclusive education and reviving of shattered dreams.

Emmanuel Tuyisenge is another beneficiary of STEMpower's training programs whose testament further highlights the practical impact of the organization. The 22-year-old from Kanjongo Sector in Nyamasheke district, always dreamt of becoming an electronics technician, but lacked the financial means to pursue his dream.

In 2022, he heard about STEMpower and enrolled for its free-to-attend training program. After completing training, he opened 'Emmy Shop of Electronics', the only electronic repair shop in his village.

'I wanted to utilize the skills I acquired and then noticed there was no one in my area repairing electronic gadgets. My business is now running well, and I hope to expand it as time goes by,' he said.

STEMpower's presence in Rwanda is already bearing fruits.

Effective teaching methodology

Gervais Tuyizere, a high school student at Murama Secondary School in Ruhango district, also participated in a number of trainings by STEMpower. He says that they have helped him better understand what he was being taught in class.

"The hands-on teaching methodology helps me better understand what I am learning and it becomes easier to remember and apply it. I have since learnt how to install internet connection in my area, and how to do basic computer maintenance, thanks to this training," he said.

Tuyizere says he envisions becoming an IT engineer and therefore believes the skills he has acquired will be of fundamental importance as he pursues his dream career.

STEMpower has established at least one STEM center in all four provinces of the country and in Kigali city, to reach as many beneficiaries as possible. The facilities are located at University of Rwanda- College of Science and Technology, Nyarugenge district, Ines Ruhengeri in Musanze district; Kibogora Polytechnic located in Nyamasheke district and at the University of Rwanda- College of Education in Kayonza district.

Other learning institutions hosting the centers are Gitwe Adventist College (Ruhango district), East African Christian College in Kicukiro district, Nyabiheke Refugee Camp (Gatsibo district) and University of Tourism, Technology and Business studies situated in Rubavu district.

These centers are not just for students but also serve members of the local community, providing vital skills and opportunities to those who might otherwise be left behind.

The non-profit organization will soon inaugurate a new STEM center at Rwanda Polytechnic College in Kigali as it expands its footprint in the country.

Besides Rwanda, STEMpower has presence in many other Africa's Sub-Saharan countries such as Ethiopia, South Sudan, Mali, Congo-Brazzaville, Burundi, Uganda, and Kenya among many others.

In total, the organization has established 125 STEM centers which are helping students learn innovation, real-world problem-solving and creativity, thereby empowering them to lift their respective countries from poverty.