SPD anticipates the "Academy for Girls"
Oberhausen Launches Girls' Academy to Boost STEM Participation
The city of Oberhausen has taken a significant step towards promoting the educational landscape, with the launch of the Girls' Academy. The Academy, aimed at inspiring girls to pursue careers in Mathematics, Informatics, Natural Sciences, and Technology (MINT), is the brainchild of Claudia Salwik, a member of the city council and the spokesperson for equal opportunities in the SPD faction [1].
The Girls' Academy is a continuation of the already established Girls' Days, which Salwik explained during the launch event. The Academy intends to attract girls in grades 8 to 13 and will support 20 students from different secondary schools each year [1].
The Academy's goal is to engage girls in STEM activities, such as building a probe and conducting experiments to send into the stratosphere, fostering interest and skills in science and technology. This program is offered for free and encourages participation in challenging, hands-on scientific projects [1].
Local businesses and universities appear involved in supporting and promoting the Academy. These institutions offer opportunities such as access to expertise, resources, and potentially further education and career pathways in STEM fields. Although specific business or university names are not detailed, these institutions typically contribute through sponsorships, mentorship, or collaboration with the Academy to empower girls in technical disciplines and expand their future professional options.
Claudia Salwik expressed hope that the number of companies supporting the Girls' Academy will continue to grow. She also thanked all Oberhausen entrepreneurs and companies that are already participating in the Academy, stating that it is about winning students over for the Oberhausen business landscape [1].
The Academy will further animate the offer of 'Lab4U', a programme that allows students to work on real-world projects under the guidance of professionals. The Academy's ultimate goal is to win girls over for a MINT career in a regional company.
The Girls' Academy is an addition to the educational landscape in Oberhausen, aiming to create a win for the educational landscape of the city by fostering strong connections between students, companies, and the university. The Academy officially began in April, marking an exciting new chapter in Oberhausen's commitment to promoting equal opportunities and encouraging young girls to pursue careers in STEM.
[1] Source: Press Release, City of Oberhausen, April 2023.
Science and education-and-self-development intertwine at the Girls' Academy in Oberhausen, as it offers personal-growth opportunities through hands-on learning in STEM fields, with a focus on fostering interest and skills in mathematics, informatics, natural sciences, and technology. The AcademY's ultimate learning goal is to win girls over for a career in a MINT field, connect them with local businesses and universities, and contribute to the city's educational landscape.
