By Michaella Faith Wright
In a field historically dominated by men, women in Sierra Leone are defying the odds and making remarkable strides in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). From groundbreaking research to innovative technological solutions, these pioneers are not only breaking barriers but also inspiring a new generation of young girls to pursue careers in STEM. Despite challenges such as limited resources and gender biases, their resilience and achievements continue to shape the future of the country’s scientific and technological landscape.
A Growing Presence in STEM Fields
Over the years, Sierra Leone has seen an increasing number of women excelling in STEM. These women are engineers, scientists, technology innovators, and mathematicians who are proving that gender should never be a limitation in the pursuit of knowledge and innovation. Organizations, universities, and advocacy groups have played crucial roles in promoting female participation in STEM, offering mentorship and scholarships to young girls who aspire to join these fields.
Dr. Bernadette Lahai, a renowned agricultural scientist, is one of Sierra Leone’s outstanding women in STEM. Her work in agricultural research has helped farmers improve food production and sustainability in the country. She continues to serve as a role model for aspiring female scientists, proving that women can lead in scientific advancements and agricultural development.
Another prominent figure is Dr. Fatu Forna, an expert in public health and epidemiology. Her contributions to maternal and child health have significantly impacted Sierra Leone’s healthcare sector. Dr. Forna has been at the forefront of research and advocacy, ensuring that women and children receive the best medical care possible. Her achievements exemplify the importance of women’s participation in medical research and healthcare innovation.
Dr. Fatu Forna
Overcoming Challenges
Despite their success, women in STEM in Sierra Leone face numerous challenges. Gender stereotypes remain a significant barrier, with societal expectations often discouraging young girls from pursuing careers in science and technology. Many girls are raised with the notion that STEM fields are more suitable for men, limiting their aspirations from an early age.
Additionally, access to quality education and resources poses another challenge. Many schools in Sierra Leone, particularly in rural areas, lack the necessary infrastructure, laboratory facilities, and trained educators to encourage STEM learning among girls. This lack of resources often results in a lower representation of women in STEM-related professions.
However, initiatives are emerging to address these challenges. Programs such as “Girls in Science and Technology” and “STEM for Her” are actively working to provide mentorship, scholarships, and hands-on training for young girls interested in science and technology. These programs help to bridge the gap by empowering girls with the confidence and skills needed to thrive in STEM careers.
The Role of Education and Mentorship
Education is key to increasing the participation of women in STEM, and many institutions are now prioritizing gender inclusion in their STEM programs. Universities such as Fourah Bay College and Njala University have been instrumental in promoting female enrollment in STEM-related courses. Through scholarships and mentorship programs, more women are being encouraged to take up roles in scientific research, engineering, and technological innovation.
Mentorship has also played a crucial role in inspiring young girls to consider STEM careers. Many successful women in these fields are now mentoring and guiding the next generation. Female scientists, engineers, and tech entrepreneurs frequently visit schools to engage with students, sharing their journeys and the impact of their work. This mentorship not only motivates young girls but also provides them with a support system as they navigate their STEM education and careers.
Success Stories of Women Transforming STEM
Sierra Leone boasts several success stories of women transforming the STEM landscape. One such example is Mariama Mustapha , a software engineer who is championing the use of technology to solve societal problems. She has developed several digital platforms that provide educational and business solutions, helping bridge the digital divide in Sierra Leone.
Dr Mariama Mustapha
Similarly, Dr. Isata Wurie , a biomedical scientist, is making significant contributions to medical research in the country. Her work focuses on disease control and improving healthcare delivery through scientific advancements. Her research is vital in strengthening Sierra Leone’s healthcare system and tackling pressing medical challenges.
Dr. Isata Wurie
These women, along with many others, serve as inspirations, proving that through dedication and perseverance, women can make remarkable contributions to STEM and national development.
Shaping the Future
The progress made by women in STEM in Sierra Leone is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. While challenges persist, the growing representation of women in these fields signals a promising future. More young girls are now seeing STEM as an attainable career path, thanks to the efforts of trailblazing women who continue to break barriers and challenge societal norms.
To ensure continued growth, there is a need for more policies and initiatives that support and encourage women in STEM. This includes increasing investment in STEM education, providing access to advanced learning resources, and fostering a more inclusive environment where women can thrive. Government and private sector involvement is crucial in creating opportunities and ensuring that women in STEM receive the recognition and support they deserve.
Conclusion
The journey of women in STEM in Sierra Leone is one of resilience, passion, and groundbreaking achievements. These pioneers are not only shaping the future of science and technology in the country but also paving the way for future generations. Their stories inspire young girls to dream big and pursue careers in STEM, ensuring that Sierra Leone continues to benefit from the talents and innovations of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Copyright –Published in Expo Magazine, March-April 2025 Edition Vol.3, No.3, (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)