MISSION PRERNA : An Initiative for Empowering Young Girls

Summary

WHY STEM FOR YOUNG GIRLS?

In India, despite an impressive 44% of STEM graduates being women, they hold only 14% of STEM jobs. Among the 280,000 scientists and engineers, women constitute only 14%. Deep-rooted biases persist, with 76% of Indian women believing men are genetically better suited for STEM careers. Many young girls face barriers to reaching their full potential, starting early on. Accessible STEM education empowers girls, fostering confidence and capability, enabling them to lead lives of their choice, express ideas, and take ownership of their futures.

AIM OF THE INITIATIVE:

• To provide STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Education to girls at Government schools of Noida.
• Create critical thinkers and enable the next generation of innovators.
• Promote science and Technological Literacy among young girls.

HOW YOUR DONATION WILL BE USED?

• Setting up of STEM Labs- Set up of low-cost tinkering spaces in schools. Introduce practical coding and AI knowledge, fostering hands-on learning experiences for children.
• Capacity Building of students and teachers- Build the capacity of students and teachers to utilize the space safely and appropriately and in accordance with grades and theme.
• Remedial mathematical classes- Addresses STEM education barriers by tackling students' fear of mathematics, especially among girls. Utilizing a unique MATHS box kit, it bridges numeracy gaps, making math fun and inspiring.
• Design-Thinking and Tinkering Activities- After establishing foundational knowledge, the project progresses to curriculum-mapped tinkering and design activities. Covering magnetism, electricity, coding, and more, the curriculum, available on an app, ensures engaging, practical learning. Regular teacher capacity building sustains active participation.
• Amplifying Tinkering Mindset- Foster a community of problem solvers by releasing monthly Tinkering themed newsletters created by and for students across four locations. Promoting motivation, ideas, and support for active engagement.
• Providing Mentorship and Role Models- Through events, talks, exhibitions and science fairs, provide opportunities for students to showcase their learning and interact with inspiring women in STEM professions
• Building entrepreneurial mindset- Instill entrepreneurial thinking in girls, focusing on innovation, problem- solving, and self-confidence. The curriculum includes socio-emotional learning through model exhibitions and community problem-solving. Continuous support and mentorship extend beyond the curriculum, fostering inspiration from female STEM practitioners.
• Formation of a dedicated stem committee- A school committee, including the principal, senior teachers, ward members, students, and parents, will be formed. Comprehensive sensitization and capacity-building sessions will ensure understanding and effective functioning of STEM labs, fostering awareness of STEM education's importance

WHAT ARE WE TRYING TO ACHIEVE?

• Prepares students for high demand career opportunities in the field of science.
• Eliminate stereotypes that often hinder girl’s engagement in the realm of science and technology.
• Serve as an edge over traditional education.
• Promote Inclusivity.

SUSTAINABILITY OF THE INITIATIVE:

The sustainability plan for this initiative involves the dedicated STEM Committee which comprises the key stakeholders- the principal, senior teachers, ward members, students, and some parents. Through comprehensive sensitization training, continuous capacity building, and regular monitoring and evaluation, the committee will ensure the effective functioning of STEM labs during and after project implementation. A carefully designed sustainability pathway outlines steps for maintenance, addresses challenges, and incorporates community engagement strategies to foster a sense of ownership. Integration into the curriculum, resource management, regular reviews, and documentation, along with a focus on recognition and celebration, contribute to the initiative’s long-term success by creating a dynamic and adaptive framework for sustainable STEM education in schools.

TIMELINE AND LOCATION:

• The project will be run for a period of 1 year.
• The project will target 4 Government Schools of Noida.