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From News Desk
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and IEEE, a technical professional organisation and a public charity dedicated to advancing technology for humanity, have collaborated with South Africa’s Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the University of Pretoria (UP), hosted a STEM Bootcamp on Electricity, Skyscrapers and Engineering for Sustainable Cities from 11 to 12 February 2026 at the University of Pretoria in South Africa.
Organised to mark the International Day of Women and Girls in STEM (11 February), the bootcamp aims to promote hands-on STEM learning while encouraging individuals to pursue studies and careers in engineering, electricity-related fields and the built environment.
Speaking at the launch of the bootcamp, Chief Director for Multilateral Cooperation and Africa of South Africa’s Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), Mmampei Chaba highlighted the need to prepare young people for the economy by empowering them with relevant skills. “By 2030 over 50% of the African population will be young people however we are not producing the right skill sets that we need for the economy. DSTI is committed to addressing this and this is why we have partnered with UNESCO -IEEE UP for this bootcamp” she said.
As rapid urbanisation and technological change continue to shape societies and labour markets, foundational knowledge in electricity, structural engineering and urban infrastructure is increasingly critical for sustainable development. Despite this, young learners still face obstacles to participation within the STEM fields, due to persistent structural barriers and limited access to quality STEM education.
Speaking about this, Peter Wells, Head of Education for UNESCO in Southern Africa stated, “UNESCO is committed to ensuring that every young person – especially girls – has access to quality STEM education, because science, technology and innovation are not optional for the future we are building; they are essential. Too many girls continue to be excluded from STEM pathways due to persistent gender stereotypes, unequal access to resources and limited opportunities to engage with science in meaningful ways. Hands-on STEM initiatives, such as this Bootcamp, respond directly to this challenge. Through partnerships with institutions such as IEEE, government, and universities, UNESCO is working to create inclusive STEM ecosystems that open doors for girls, strengthen education systems, and ensure that innovation reflects the talents, perspectives, and potential of all.”
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