The Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT) Mwanza campus has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing girls’ participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) through an impactful outreach and motivation tour across secondary schools in Mwanza. The initiative reached Bwiru Boys, Bujingwa, Angelina Mabula, Shibula, Kitangiri, Igoma, Busweru, and Mwanza Girls’ Secondary School, inspiring thousands of students to view science as a powerful pathway to personal growth and national development.
This outreach was significantly strengthened through the support of the EASTRIP Project, which focuses on creating equitable access to STEM education for young women. By leveraging EASTRIP’s resources and networks, DIT was able to organize interactive sessions, motivational talks, and practical demonstrations that captured the attention of thousands of students. The project’s backing ensured that the engagement was both comprehensive and inclusive, reaching schools across diverse socio-economic settings in Mwanza.
Speaking on behalf of DIT, Alice Mwasyoge, Human Resources Officer, said the outreach was designed to challenge long-standing stereotypes and empower girls to confidently pursue science-based subjects and careers. “At DIT, we strongly believe that girls have immense potential in science. By motivating them early, we are investing in a skilled and innovative workforce that will drive Tanzania’s future development,” she emphasized.
Highlighting opportunities available for aspiring female scientists, Qs. Doris Ngogo, Estates Officer at DIT Mwanza Campus, noted that the institute actively supports girls’ ambitions through higher education loan schemes and the Samia Scholarship, which prioritizes science-related programmes. “No girl should abandon her dreams because of financial constraints. There are government-backed loans and scholarships for students who choose to pursue science and technology programmes at DIT,” she said.
Students who participated in the sessions testified to the programme’s impact. Representing students, Nibras Said and Kulwa Phares (Form Six students at Bwiru Boys’ Secondary School) said the engagement had deepened their understanding of STEM pathways and motivated them to encourage their peers. “The clear explanations from DIT experts gave us a realistic picture of the many opportunities available in science-related fields,” they noted.
Educators also welcomed the initiative. Mwl. Hela Ngasa, Academic Teacher at Bwiru Wavula Secondary School, said the detailed presentations from DIT had strengthened their confidence in advising parents and students to consider the institution. “DIT offers a wide range of science and technology programmes that equip students with practical skills aligned with labour market needs. We now feel confident recommending DIT to parents,” he said.
Female students expressed renewed determination and confidence. Josephine Kandayi and Benita Manyovas from Bujingwa Secondary School said the outreach had boosted their morale and belief in their abilities. “We are now more confident to choose science subjects without fear. We call upon parents and the government to continue supporting girls who aspire to careers in science,” they said.
The outreach forms part of activities marking the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, celebrated annually on 11 February. It also aligns with the broader strategic vision of DIT Mwanza Campus, under the leadership of Dkt. John Msumba, to nurture a generation equipped with strong scientific and technological skills essential for sustainable community and national development.
Through sustained partnerships with schools, targeted scholarships, and continuous community engagement, supported by the EASTRIP Project, DIT continues to light the way for girls in STEM transforming inspiration into opportunity and potential into progress.
By Joshua Kasase, Public Relations Officer, DIT Mwanza campus.
