From Vision to Impact: Redefining STEM by Closing the Gender Gap
Laikipia University proudly hosted the 2026 International Day of Women and Girls in Science, bringing together students, educators, researchers, mentors, and industry experts in a powerful celebration of possibility, resilience, and innovation. Anchored on the theme “From Vision to Impact: Redefining STEM by Closing the Gender Gap,” the event moved beyond inspiration to deliberate action; challenging young girls to transform their dreams into tangible solutions for society.
Setting the Tone: Moving Beyond Ideas to Action
In her opening remarks, Dr. Rose Nyambura underscored the transformative power of STEM in shaping communities and nations. She encouraged the young girls present to boldly pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, emphasizing that success in STEM is not confined by gender but by determination, preparation, and opportunity.
Dr. Nyambura called on the participants to move beyond ideas and take deliberate steps toward impact. She noted that the presence of accomplished women speakers and mentors was living proof that girls can excel and lead in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Official Opening: A Call for Vision and Excellence
The event was officially opened by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, Finance and Planning, Prof. Patience Mshenga. In her address, Prof. Mshenga expressed gratitude to all participants, organizers, mentors, and partner schools for their commitment to advancing girls in STEM.
She challenged the young learners to cultivate a clear, written vision for their future and to actively work toward identifying societal problems and designing innovative solutions. She emphasized that girls must strive to perform as well as and even surpass their male counterparts in science subjects.
Prof. Mshenga reaffirmed Laikipia University’s commitment to supporting women-led research projects and strengthening STEM education through:
- Faculty development
- Research and innovation support
- Creation of conducive learning environments
- Strategic promotion of STEM disciplines
She further urged faculty members and mentors to intentionally nurture and guide young girls and women in STEM, recognizing mentorship as a powerful bridge between potential and achievement.
Confronting the “Leaky Pipeline”
The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Wanjiku Chiuri, a distinguished scholar from the Department of Earth Sciences. Drawing from her childhood experience of meeting university graduates from Makerere University at the age of nine, she reflected on how early exposure to role models can ignite lifelong ambition.
Prof. Chiuri addressed a critical concern in STEM development the loss of female talent along the academic and professional journey, a phenomenon she described as the “leaky pipeline.” She outlined key areas where interventions are necessary:
- Early socialization
- Smooth educational transitions
- Addressing workplace barriers
- Tackling leadership challenges
- Aligning policy frameworks with national development goals
She encouraged schools to establish science clubs and actively support girls’ participation in science fairs and innovation platforms. Her message was clear: retaining women in STEM requires coordinated effort across families, schools, institutions, workplaces, and policy spaces.
Diverse Voices, Shared Purpose
The event featured an impressive lineup of guest speakers who shared both expertise and personal journeys:
- Ms. Salome Ireri spoke on Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity, emphasizing the urgent need for women to shape emerging technologies, innovations, and digital perspectives rather than merely consume them.
- Ms. Jane Msaili, a lecturer in Mathematics, narrated her inspiring journey from a young girl whose clear vision only crystallized in Form One. Surrounded by positive influences and strong mentorship, she actualized her dream and now impacts lives through teaching. She stressed that mentorship is a critical pillar in educational and career development.
- Ms. Rachel Kiuna addressed Adolescents and Young Girls’ Mental Health and Wellness, highlighting the importance of emotional and psychological well-being in navigating academic and life challenges. She encouraged girls to build strong self-esteem, resilience, and healthy coping mechanisms to sustain success in demanding STEM pathways.
- Dr. Claire Nyaboke delivered an insightful presentation on “The Power of Science: From Discovery to Enterprise.” She illustrated how scientific research should not end in laboratories or academic journals but must translate into innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment. Dr. Orina challenged young girls to see science not only as a field of study but as a platform for enterprise where discoveries can be transformed into products, solutions, and businesses that address societal needs. Her message underscored the economic dimension of STEM and the importance of equipping girls with both scientific knowledge and entrepreneurial skills.
- Ms. Virginia Kavata shared practical insights on successful strategies in health. She highlighted evidence-based approaches, strategic planning, and continuous learning as key drivers of excellence in healthcare careers. Her message emphasized that women play a vital role in strengthening health systems and advancing community well-being through scientific expertise.
Innovation in Action
True to the theme of moving from vision to impact, students showcased innovative projects designed to address real societal challenges. The creativity, technical skill, and confidence displayed reflected the transformative potential of sustained mentorship and exposure.
The top three innovations were awarded trophies:
- Position 1: Matatu App – Njonjo Girls
- Position 2: Robotics Project – Ndururumo Secondary School
- Position 3: Clean Energy from Hydrogen – Igwamiti Secondary School
These projects demonstrated that young girls are not only ready to participate in STEM, but also to lead innovation in transportation, automation, and sustainable energy.
A Collective Commitment to Closing the Gap
The 2026 International Day of Women and Girls in Science at Laikipia University was more than a celebration; it was a call to action. It reaffirmed the University’s dedication to fostering inclusive research environments, strengthening STEM education, and ensuring that female talent is nurtured, retained, and elevated.
As echoed throughout the event, vision must translate into impact. With sustained mentorship, institutional support, and deliberate policy alignment, the gender gap in STEM can be closed not gradually, but intentionally.
Laikipia University remains steadfast in championing a future where every girl with a dream in science has the opportunity, support, and confidence to realize it.