Esther Samuel
Mariéme Jamme is a prominent figure in the world of STEM education, known for her work in promoting the field across Africa. As a Senegalese-born entrepreneur and activist, Jamme has made it her mission to empower young people, particularly girls and women, to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
One of the ways that Jamme has been promoting STEM education in Africa is through her organization, iamtheCODE. The organization’s mission is to provide 1 million young women and girls with digital skills training and opportunities to enter the tech industry by 2030. iamtheCODE is working to achieve this goal through a variety of programs, including hackathons, coding camps, and mentorship initiatives.
In addition to her work with iamtheCODE, Jamme is also a vocal advocate for STEM education in Africa more broadly. She has spoken at numerous conferences and events, including the 2018 Africa Code Week, where she highlighted the importance of digital skills in preparing young people for the jobs of the future. She has also been recognized for her efforts in this area, receiving the 2019 Social Entrepreneur of the Year award from the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship.
One of the key challenges that Jamme and other STEM advocates face in Africa is the lack of access to resources and opportunities. Many schools in the region do not have the necessary equipment or qualified teachers to teach STEM subjects effectively. Additionally, there are cultural barriers that discourage girls and women from pursuing careers in these fields. Jamme is working to address these issues by partnering with governments, corporations, and other organizations to provide funding and support for STEM education initiatives.
Overall, Mariéme Jamme is making a significant impact in promoting STEM education in Africa. Through her work with iamtheCODE and her advocacy efforts, she is helping to create a brighter future for young people across the continent. By empowering girls and women with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in STEM fields, Jamme is helping to build a more equitable and prosperous Africa for all.
