Capacity Building Workshop on Empowering Girls in STEM and TVET Through Mentorship Begins

• June 9, 2026
• MoHERST

The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST), in collaboration with the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) and the University of Applied Science, Engineering and Technology (USET), today commenced a Capacity Building Workshop on Empowering Girls in STEM and TVET Through Mentorship.

The workshop brought together USET staff, alumni, Institutional Gender and Disability Focal Points, and key Ministry officials to strengthen institutional capacity for promoting gender-responsive mentorship and increasing the participation of girls in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to advance inclusive education, skills development, and equal opportunities for young women and girls pursuing careers in STEM and TVET fields.

Officially opening the workshop, MoHERST Gender Focal Point, Ms. Kumba Jammeh, underscored the critical role of structured mentorship in addressing gender disparities within STEM and TVET disciplines. She highlighted the importance of sustained institutional commitment, collaboration, and targeted support mechanisms to empower girls through guidance, leadership development, and skills enhancement.

Day One focused on introducing the objectives of the workshop and laying the foundation for discussions on effective mentorship approaches. Participants engaged in interactive sessions examining barriers that affect girls’ access, retention, and success in STEM and TVET programmes, while exploring practical strategies for creating supportive and inclusive learning environments.

Discussions further emphasized the value of positive role models, strong institutional support systems, and tailored mentorship programmes in fostering confidence, motivation, and interest among female students pursuing STEM and TVET pathways. Participants also shared experiences and best practices aimed at strengthening mentorship delivery within USET and beyond.

The first day concluded with reflections on key lessons learned and commitments towards implementing the mentorship toolkit to support sustainable and impactful mentorship initiatives.

The workshop continues on 10 June 2026 with sessions focused on practical mentorship tools, action planning, and strengthening institutional frameworks to ensure long-term impact in empowering girls and young women in STEM and TVET.