Canada-funded STEM project to benefit over 3,000 Tanzanians

DAR ES SALAAM: OVER 3,000 students and 150 teachers from Kigoma, Songwe, and Tabora regions will benefit from the establishment of special Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) centers that aim to empower girls in these critical fields.

The new project will also enhance their opportunities in STEM education.

The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI), has approved the establishment of STEM centers across the country.

These centers will be set up in existing school buildings, Teacher Resource Centers (TRCs), and community centers.

The approved locations for the STEM centers include: Buhigwe Teacher Resource Center (TRC), Kigoma Ilolangulu Community Center in Uyui District, Tabora Region, and Nambala Secondary School in Songwe Region.

The twelve-month initiative, titled ‘Empowering Girls in STEM’ which started from December 2024 to December 2025.

 It is funded by the Government of Canada through UNICEF and is being implemented in collaboration with the Projekt Inspire Foundation and the Government of Tanzania.

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The launch of the EG project was addressed by the Projekt Inspire Director, Lwidiko Mhamilawa.

He emphasised that the project is part of a broader effort to address gender disparities in STEM education and encourage more girls to pursue studies and careers in science and technology-related fields.

“These centers are not just classrooms; they are platforms that empower girls to pursue careers in STEM and become agents of change in their communities. The collaboration between Projekt Inspire, UNICEF, and the government of Tanzania is a significant step toward sustainable development,” he said.

Mhamilawa further noted that the project will improve practical learning environments, provide teacher training, integrate digital tools, and offer professional counseling. It also aims to promote gender equality and strengthen community engagement.

On her part, the E-learning coordinator from TAMISEMI Eng Joyce Baravuga highlighted the focus of the initiative on supporting female students and teachers in promoting their contributions to the STEM field.

“We are very grateful for the creation of this project, as it will bring about positive results and impact in the education sector,” she said.

On her part, the Chief Education Officer from Unicef Tanzania, Simone Vis, added that boys must be involved and learn through these STEM-related matters.