WINDHOEK, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- Ten talented girls, aged 15 to 18, took center stage in the Namibian capital of Windhoek on Tuesday, showcasing their skills and innovations at a special event marking the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.
Observed annually on Feb. 11, the day is an initiative led by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women in collaboration with institutions and civil society partners to promote the participation and empowerment of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
At the event, the girls, working in pairs, unveiled their innovative projects to an audience of peers, teachers, parents, and journalists. The projects featured practical and advanced technological solutions, showcasing their creativity, problem-solving abilities, and engagement with STEM.
Their prototypes -- including solar water pumps, fans, pans, cellphone chargers, and house alarms -- were designed to address everyday challenges in their communities using renewable energy.
Sixteen-year-old Esme Ndalikokule who participated in the event told Xinhua that her passion for science and technology was fueled by opportunities to enhance her skills in public speaking as well as STEM fields.
"These are all crucial aspects that we, as young innovators, should immerse ourselves in. I'm really grateful for the experiences I've had," she said. "I aspire to be an innovator who breaks boundaries and inspires girls worldwide to take initiative, work hard, and pave the way for future generations."
Representing various schools, the girls developed their projects after attending a STEM workshop on Feb. 8, organized by Mindsinaction, an interactive learning center for STEM education.
"The workshop's goal was to help them apply the science and mathematics they learn in school to technology and engineering. We taught them electronics and coding, then challenged them to identify and address a problem in their communities," Mindsinaction Chief Executive Officer Ndaudika Mulundileni told Xinhua.
The girls embraced the challenge, developing prototypes that reflect both ingenuity and a bright future for women in technology in Namibia, Mulundileni noted.
