In the first quarter of 2025, Achievers Ghana had the honour of hosting a life-changing 4-day STEM Trek program at its Learning Center in Nima, Accra. This program was powered by the energy, passion, and expertise of student volunteers from Indiana University, USA, as part of the university’s broader TECH Trek initiative. The program brought direct, hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education to 70 girls aged 8 to 15 years from deprived communities in Ghana.

The program was made possible through the unwavering support and coordination of Madam Efua Adabie, co-founder of the Breaking Doors Foundation. A kind-hearted and visionary woman, Madam Efua is deeply passionate about supporting girls to break barriers and rise to leadership in STEM. It was through her efforts that the Indiana University students were connected to Achievers Ghana. Her role was pivotal, and her contribution is appreciated beyond words.

The Indiana University student volunteer team consisted of Courtland, Agness, Henery, Demi, Wodsander, Sam, and Kate. These bright, committed students led the girls through an intensive and interactive STEM journey, focusing on Arduino Robotics, basic coding, electronics, and problem-solving. Each day was carefully structured to introduce new concepts, build understanding, and encourage teamwork.

The first day of the training introduced the girls to basic electronics and how technology is applied in real life. Many of them had never touched a wire or built a circuit before, so it was both new and exciting. On the second day, the facilitators walked them through Arduino programming, helping the girls understand how simple commands can control real-world devices. Day three was focused on hands-on problem-solving and assembling functional robotics kits, where the girls worked in teams to build, test, and improve their projects. The final day included presentations, group demonstrations, and reflections, giving each girl a chance to showcase what she had learned.

Throughout the program, the volunteers from Indiana University not only taught the girls new skills but also inspired confidence, creativity, and leadership. They created a supportive environment where the girls felt safe to explore, ask questions, make mistakes, and grow. For many participants, this was their first time engaging with robotics and coding, and it opened a world of possibilities.

The program’s impact was immediate and powerful. The 70 girls walked away with not just technical skills but a renewed belief in their potential. They now see technology as something within their reach, not something reserved only for boys or people in other countries. They were encouraged to think creatively and to begin using technology to address real problems in their communities.

Several girls expressed their excitement and shared their experiences. Zainab, 13, said, “I used to think robotics was only for boys or people abroad. But now I can build something with my own hands. I want to be an engineer one day.”

Safiya, 12, shared, “The visitors from Indiana University were so kind. They made us feel like we could do anything. I want to learn more about coding and teach other girls too.”

Latifa, 14, added, “This was the best week of my life. I loved every session. Please let us have this program every term!”

The girls’ happiness and excitement were evident throughout the four days. They laughed, learned, built, and bonded. At the end of the program, almost every girl said she wished the program would continue forever. Many are now inspired to start small training sessions in their schools and neighbourhoods, passing on the knowledge they received—just as they were trained.

This program also reinforced the mission of Achievers Ghana: to empower girls through education, mentorship, and digital skills. The STEM Trek has shown that with the right tools and encouragement, young girls can rise above barriers and contribute meaningfully to technology and innovation in Ghana.

Achievers Ghana extends profound gratitude to Madam Efua Adabie, whose passion and coordination made this possible, and to the incredible team of Indiana University students who dedicated their time and energy to making a difference. We also extend sincere thanks to the KGL Foundation, whose support provided the materials and tools needed to run the training smoothly. The 4-day STEM Trek was not just a training; it was a spark. A spark that has lit up a future where girls in deprived communities can dream bigger, reach higher, and lead boldly in the world of STEM.