Togolaises In Science, a non-profit organization, recently conducted its first STEM caravan in Togo from October 26 to 30, 2026. The caravan visited 10 schools in seven cities across five regions, reaching over 2,000 students, including 1,078 girls. The organization's goal is to promote STEM education and encourage girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The caravan provided hands-on experience with STEM-related activities, allowing students to explore various fields and interact with role models.
The caravan covered five regions in Togo, including Maritime, Plateaux, Centrale, Kara, and Savanes. It visited general education colleges, scientific high schools, and technical high schools, both public and private. At each stop, the Togolaises In Science team was welcomed by school administrators and teachers, who mobilized students to participate in the workshops. The team presented four domains: robotics, artificial intelligence, 3D printing, and home automation. Students had the opportunity to manipulate equipment, test devices, and interact with the animation teams.
During the workshops, students discovered the role of sensors, motors, and electronic cards in robotics and electronics. They also learned about artificial intelligence applied to robotics, demonstrating how robots can collect information, analyze it, and adapt their behavior. Additionally, students explored the process of transforming digital models into physical objects through 3D printing. The team encouraged girls to take the lead in demonstrations, test devices, and ask questions.
The Togolaises In Science team observed that certain barriers appear as early as middle school, where students begin to doubt their ability to pursue scientific or technical careers. The team identified two major obstacles: self-doubt and lack of role models. Many girls believe that STEM careers are not for them, having had limited opportunities to explore these fields. The team aims to provide girls with the opportunity to experience and discover STEM careers, allowing them to make informed decisions about their future.
To support STEM education, Togolaises In Science presented two tools: Déclic cards and TIS Connect. Déclic cards are a game consisting of 62 career cards, 13 portraits of Togolese women, and 15 cards featuring female characters from comics and films. The game allows students to compare careers, discover new ones, and discuss their interests. TIS Connect is a digital orientation companion that uses artificial intelligence to help students explore STEM careers based on their interests and understand the required education.
The caravan's impact was evident in the enthusiasm of students and teachers. The headmaster of Lycée Bassar Ville expressed his excitement about hosting the caravan, highlighting the importance of making STEM subjects concrete and accessible to young students. He noted that seeing students, especially girls, engage with the equipment and ask questions was a powerful experience that could inspire future careers.
The Togolaises In Science caravan demonstrates the organization's commitment to promoting STEM education and encouraging girls to pursue careers in these fields. By providing hands-on experiences and role models, the organization aims to bridge the gap between girls and boys in STEM education. The caravan's success highlights the need for initiatives that promote STEM education and provide opportunities for girls to explore these fields.
Key points
- The Togolaises In Science caravan reached over 2,000 students, including 1,078 girls, across 10 schools in seven cities in Togo.
