Federation of Kenya Employers in partnership with the Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise (NHO), visited St Georges Girls’ Secondary school on the 27th of October 2021, to share and push the agenda of FKE Girls in Technology (GIT) project. GIT project targets girls in secondary schools and TVETs in Kenya with key interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects with the goal to bridge the gap between skills produced by learning institutions and the actual skill demand in the industry.
Mrs. Rukunga, Senior Principle, St Georges Girls Secondary School welcomed the guests and in her opening remarks emphasized to the students on the relevance of STEM subjects and that they should take keen focus in sciences because through performing well, they can choose their future careers wisely ensuring they remain relevant over time.
The keynote speaker, Eng. Teresa Karani from Kengen gave a powerful presentation to the girls. She personalized her presentation and spoke of her journey from high school to university, to being the well renowned Engineer she is today.
‘I chose who I am today, back in Loreto Limuru as a high school student like you today. Understanding the seriousness, it would take to be an Engineer, I focused on STEM subjects at a young age to ensure I qualify for the course, 17 years working with Kengen, i do not regret that decision to date, you can make your dreams a reality today, ‘she encouraged the girls.
We had students in the University pursuing Science and Technology related courses do short presentations, and each one emphasized on the following:
• STEM subjects are important because they form the basis of a huge number of careers. Some of these jobs might be obvious like, research scientist, doctor, engineer, accountant but others – such as software developers, pilots, architects – are not so obvious.
• Importance of thinking carefully about your career plans when choosing your KCSE’s and college. STEM subjects also give you loads of transferable skills which you can apply in any career.
FKE projects team, spearheaded by William Wandera, carried out a science quiz session that the students were able to answer and after the very interactive session the winners won branded T-shirts for Girls in Tech. The event ended on a high when Mr Obiro, Head of Advocacy, Consultancy and Partnerships, presented a Ksh. 200,000 cheque gifts to the Principal of St Georges Girls Secondary School on behalf of FKE & NHO to support and encourage the students even as they learn more on the importance of STEM subjects and how it can impact their career choices in future. This being the highlight of the event, all walked out well informed and encouraged.