In Africa, gender stereotypes related to scientific disciplines often take root from childhood, limiting girls' access to careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Yet, male figures, fathers and teachers, play a crucial role in promoting science to young girls from their earliest years of schooling. Their involvement can help break down these barriers and encourage girls to explore their full potential in fields still perceived as masculine.
The Role of Fathers: First Role Models at Home
Fathers can have a decisive influence on how girls perceive science. By supporting their interests, valuing their achievements, and providing tools to explore the scientific world, they become catalysts for sustainable change. A study conducted by UN Women in Rwanda revealed that girls who received active support from their fathers were 40% more likely to pursue studies in STEM (UNESCO, 2021).
The Impact of Male Teachers in STEM
Within the school system, male teachers can play an equally crucial role. In Sub-Saharan Africa, where female STEM teachers are underrepresented, male teachers often become the primary role models for girls. Their commitment to creating inclusive environments and fostering scientific curiosity can make a real difference. For example, in Kenya, the Teacher Champions for STEM program trained male teachers to support girls in science classes. As a result, there was a 30% increase in girls' performance in mathematics in participating schools (African STEM Journal, 2022).
Educational Campaigns to Break Stereotypes
Innovative initiatives are already incorporating this dynamic in Africa. The Girls Can Code project in Ethiopia included fathers and male teachers in awareness sessions to encourage girls to get into programming. Similarly, in Cameroon, the Papa, I Want to Be an Engineer campaign mobilizes fathers as ambassadors to break stereotypes about women and science.
Conclusion
Involving fathers and teachers in the scientific education of girls is a powerful solution to change mindsets and open new opportunities for young African girls. By acting as supporters and role models, these male figures play a fundamental role in building a generation of innovators ready to tackle the continent’s challenges. As Dr. Fatoumata Traoré, a Senegalese educator, puts it: "Investing in girls' STEM education from childhood is investing in the future of Africa."
Bibliography and References
UNESCO, Cracking the Code: Girls' and Women's Education in STEM, 2021.
UN Women, Rwanda STEM Education Report, 2021.
African STEM Journal, Impact of Teacher Champions for STEM in Sub-Saharan Africa, 2022.
Girls Can Code Project, Ethiopia, 2020.
Papa, I Want to Be an Engineer Campaign, Cameroon, 2023.