Fostering scientific and technological
vocations among schoolgirls
 

Developing skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) is a fundamental objective on educational agendas worldwide, but reports highlight the low number of girls participating in these studies and professions.

In 2019, together with our foundation, the Aquae Foundation,  we launched the Aquae STEM educational programme, aimed at girls in years 3 to 6 of primary school. Its aim: strengthening their confidence in their own talent and abilities in STEM environments by sharing experiences and results with their classmates and involving families and the educational community. 

In 2022, we launched a second phase, reinforcing our commitment to digitalisation and incorporating water conservation and the climate crisis as central themes of our activities. The fifteen teaching units and the challenges presented to the participants are solved by combining the construction of physical Lego Education models and the use of a digital learning platform.

Methodology:

• Connect (awaken their curiosity to learn how the real world works) 
• Build (improve their STEM skills through hands-on activities)
• Contemplate (lead to reflection and share knowledge with one's environment)
• Continue (consolidate knowledge, skills and the motivation to keep learning)

Aquae STEM consists of a number of practical activities, both in the classroom and online, designed to arouse interest in STEM by setting challenges that have to be completed.

Unlike other STEM programmes, Aquae STEM is aimed at primary school grades 2 to 6 to foster lasting STEM learning environments at very early ages. Its implementation is planned to last for three years.