01STEM Camps

WAAW Foundation is gearing up to launch its 2012 Girls STEM Camp initiative which will target 36 African girls ages 12-15 years. Our first camp is planned for August 2012 in Abuja, in partnership with the African University of Science and Technology in Abuja, Nigeria and the University of St. Thomas School of Engineering STEPS Camp program. Seed funding for this project has been generously provided by the Engineering Information Foundation.

What is the WAAW STEM Camp?

1. An opportunity for girls to learn about role models in STEM careers, and build mentor relationships.
2. Outstanding instructors with extensive backgrounds in Science, Technology and Math teaching the workshops.
3. A one-week introduction to the world of technology and engineering, with intense individual and team participation.
4. Practical, hands-on lessons promoting experiential learning.
5. A fun residential camping experience making friends and promoting peer communities.
6. A hands-on experience with high-tech equipment and processes.

Camper Applications Open

Applications open February 1, 2012 and application forms are now available online!
The camp announcement/brochure as well as downloadable forms will be posted on this website in the middle of February. Campers may begin to apply online immediately, or mail in their applications once downloadable applications are available. Campers will be selected from all eligible applicants according to selection criteria. Please note that the WAAW STEM camp is a one week residential camp. We will not accommodate day student requests. The WAAW STEM Camp committee notifies campers of acceptance or waiting list status in mid-May. Specific dates will be in the brochure. Accepted applicants will receive an information packet from WAAW Foundation that will contain specific registration information which will be used for the STEM program evaluation.
Click Here To Apply Online for the WAAW 2012 STEM Camp.

Teacher Applications Open

Applications are now available for Science, Technology and Math teachers to assist with teaching during the camp sessions. Teachers will be paid a remuneration of $250 for their time and efforts. Teacher applications can be downloaded by clicking here. Please complete the form and email back to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Camp Fellow Applications Coming Soon

Camp fellows are undergraduate or graduate students who will be counsellors to the campers. Fellows will reside in the camp grounds for the duration of the camp and will be paid a stipend of $200 for their time and efforts. Applications will be available by mid February and can be downloaded here. Completed applications must be email back to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

The objective of the STEM camp is to promote STEM among African girls and provide a forum for the girls to interact, form peer networks and learn from role models about the importance and impact of STEM education on African innovation and poverty alluviation. Our goal is a 100% success rate of engaging participants in successful STEM careers. The theme of the 2012 STEM Camp is Mobile Technology and Green Energy For Africa's Development. Areas of focus include mathematics, computer science, environmental health science, petroleum engineering as well as personal hygiene.

The WAAW STEM camp is part of a major effort to attract more African girls into fields of science, technology, engineering and math early in their academic life. WAAW Camp inspires students' interests in STEM by showing them real-world problem-solving applications in each discipline, as well as exposing them to fascinating technologies employing locally available materials.

One of the biggest factors in encouraging girls to study STEM careers is seeing role models, having access to mentors as well as practical and experimental learning in a fun environment with other girls. These are major components that the WAAW STEM camps will offer participations, in addition to fun, team-building activities such as water sports and drama. Mentoring, leadership training and community service opportunities prepare girls to take on Africa's many technological opportunities and challenges. Studies continue to show that early interest and practical understanding in science, math, technology, and engineering is critical for African girls to succeed in these careers.

According to WAAW Foundation president, Dr. Unoma Okorafor, “The WAAW STEM camp is part of a major effort to attract more African girls into the field of technology and engineering early in their academic life. Through the STEM Camp, girls will discover research and technology by exploring their everyday surroundings, increasing their potential to achieve high-tech careers in Africa. From school to home to market to the village, girls should be able to relate STEM innovation to their everyday lives.”

There are several opportunities to participate in our STEM camp initiative in various capacities, including camp director, curriculum development, outreach and event coordinators, instructors, mentors and role models.

Some other ways that you can get involved is by sponsoring a girl, providing professional training, equipment, volunteering time or providing a scholarship for one girl to attend. The cost of a scholarship is $100.

To get involved, please contact us directly at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .