In a bid to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators, the Techie Girl Initiative (TGI) has awarded scholarships to nine outstanding pupils from Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area in Bayelsa State during the second edition of its groundbreaking “Introduce a Child to STEM” programme.

 

Held in Okoloba community, the event engaged 100 children from six primary and four secondary schools in immersive STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) experiences. Participants explored the worlds of robotics, renewable energy, creative engineering, and biology through hands-on experiments and interactive learning.

 

Children constructed solar-powered cars, created fruit batteries using tomatoes, and observed plant cells through microscopes—bridging science with real-world applications. A notable highlight was the hydraulic lifting table, an innovation with potential for use in flood-prone regions like Bayelsa.

 

The event also featured coding lessons using visual blocks and Scratch, along with engaging sessions in logic-building games, puzzles, chess, painting, and arts-in-STEAM, encouraging children to think critically and creatively.

 

Scholarships were awarded to:

 

Primary School Winners: Tamuno Tokoni, Emmanuel Igbunu, Pena Rejoice

 

Secondary School Winners: Helen Ugo, Pamosai Success, Iziri Wisdom

 

 

Speaking on the vision behind the initiative, Engr. Ifiemi Tulagha, Founder and President of TGI, emphasized the importance of building confidence, courage, and a sense of possibility in children from underserved communities.

 

“We want children in remote areas to believe that they can become scientists, engineers, problem-solvers, and leaders,” she said.

 

 

 

Tulagha also highlighted the programme’s alignment with global priorities, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 (Quality Education), 5 (Gender Equality), 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and 13 (Climate Action).

 

“STEM education isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for the future we want. And innovation doesn’t require a city—just opportunity,” she added, pledging to continue expanding TGI’s impact one community at a time.

 

 

 

Community leader Chief Thomas Tarikila praised the initiative, urging both government and private stakeholders to support grassroots innovation efforts.

 

“We’ve seen what’s possible when children are given tools and trust. Now we must ensure this doesn’t stop here,” he said.