Yinson Production inspires young girls to break barriers in STEM

Yinson Production Ghana, in partnership with the Ghana Education Service (GES), has intensified its campaign to boost Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education through practical, hands-on learning.

The initiative, dubbed STEM Clinic, is designed to spark curiosity and build confidence among young learners  particularly girls. This year’s edition engaged over 500 female students from the Ahanta West Municipality in the Western Region over a two-week period, equipping them with practical scientific skills and inspiring them to envision careers in science and technology.

Beyond encouraging innovation, the programme is part of Yinson’s broader commitment to promoting inclusive education and dismantling long-held gender stereotypes that limit girls’ participation in STEM fields.

Edward Mensah, Yinson’s Corporate Social Responsibility Coordinator, said the STEM Clinic now in its third year has become a powerful platform for bridging the gender gap in science education.

“Through this annual STEM Clinic, Yinson Production is nurturing the next generation of innovators, building confidence in young learners, and paving the way for greater female representation in Ghana’s science and technology landscape,” he noted.

He added that the company’s investment in STEM aligns with national goals to increase participation in science education and equip the next generation with the skills needed to thrive in a technology-driven economy.

Facilitators from the Youth Bridge Foundation, led by Ms. Dorothy Abokuma Mensah, guided students through interactive demonstrations and basic laboratory procedures, emphasizing teamwork, curiosity and safety.

“This session has always been interactive. Each student takes part, shares ideas and learns from one another. The students were also introduced to safe handling of equipment, wearing protective gear and adopting best practices to ensure safety during experiments,” Madam Mensah explained.

Girl Child Coordinator for Ahanta West, Madam Ernestina Kankam, challenged the students to defy stereotypes that portray STEM as a male-dominated space.

“Our place is not in the kitchen. Our place is not in the market. Science, technology, Engineering, Mathematics, ICT, name it are for all of us,” she declared passionately.

She recounted a memorable moment from the first edition of the clinic, when a student joyfully exclaimed, “Oh, more to my science!”  a remark she said reflected the inspiration the initiative continues to deliver.

Chairperson for the event, Mrs. Mary Esi Osei, commended Yinson Production for sustaining the programme and urged the girls to seize the opportunity.

“When we were in school, science and mathematics used to be a tug of war for some of us. But after this programme, I believe many of you will no longer say, ‘I’m scared of math’ or ‘I’m scared of science.’ We have female scientists, mathematicians and doctors – and I pray that many of you here will join them,” she encouraged.