In just two years, STEMpower, a non-profit organisation that promotes science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education in Sub-Saharan Africa, has established a network of eight operational STEM centres in Rwanda, strategically located to provide diverse communities with hands-on computer and electronics skills and, ultimately, bridge the digital divide.

Every STEM centre consists of a computer laboratory and an electronics lab. By working closely with the higher education institutions that host these STEM centres, the organisation 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 centres 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, thanks to STEMpower’s free computer literacy programme at College Adventist de Gitwe, Ruhango District, she says she is now better positioned for job opportunities.

"I didn’t know how to use a computer, and most of these job opportunities I came across required some basic skills. After completing the training at this centre, I now have the basic computer skills, and I am now more confident and optimistic to apply these skills in the labour market,” she explained.

Irakoze was part of a recent cohort of 131 students and community members who completed computer literacy training at College Adventist de Gitwe. Her story, therefore, showcases the organisation’s commitment to inclusive education and reviving shattered dreams.

Emmanuel Tuyisenge is another beneficiary of STEMpower’s training programmes whose story further highlights the practical impact of the organisation. The 22-year-old from Kanjongo Sector, Nyamasheke District, always dreamed of becoming an electronics technician but lacked the financial means to pursue formal education.

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

"I wanted to put to use the skills I acquired, and, fortunately, 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.

Effective teaching methodology

Gervais Tuyizere, a high school student at Murama Secondary School, 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 it,” he said, adding, "I have learned how to install an internet connection in my area, and how to do basic computer maintenance, thanks to this training.”

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

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

Other learning institutions hosting the centres are Gitwe Adventist College, Ruhango District; East African Christian College, Kicukiro District; Nyabiheke Refugee Camp, Gatsibo District; and University of Tourism, Technology and Business Studies, Rubavu District. These centres are not just for students; they also serve members of the local community, providing vital skills and opportunities to those who might otherwise be left behind.

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

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

In total, the organisation has established 125 STEM centres and counting, which are helping students learn innovation, real-world problem-solving, and creativity, hence empowering them to lift their respective homeland from stubborn poverty.