Girls aged 9–12 spent a creative day at Frederick University in Limassol, where, through workshops in Robotics, Civil Engineering, Physics, and Mathematics, they were introduced to the world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics).

The workshops—centered on nature and the environment—were specially designed for this day by members of Frederick University’s academic and research staff, together with the University’s Robotics Academy, and implemented with the support of administrative staff and female students. The aim was to bring girls into contact with science, engineering, and technology—fields in which women remain underrepresented.

In parallel with the children’s activities, parents had the opportunity to attend a workshop on ways to encourage and strengthen their children’s self-esteem. The workshop was delivered by Dr. Chryssa Nitsiou, Assistant Professor in the Department of Education at Frederick University.

STEM Day takes place twice a year at Frederick University in Nicosia and Limassol and is addressed to girls aged 9–12, with the goal of introducing them to the exciting world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), which is expected to shape the jobs of the future. Girls and women have traditionally been underrepresented in these fields, which is why it is important for them to explore them from a young age. By participating in STEM Day, they have the chance to discover for themselves just how exciting Engineering, Mathematics, Technology, and the Sciences can be.

Both STEM Day and the STEM CAMP -a week-long series of workshops for girls aged 13–16 held every July- form part of Frederick University’s long-running campaign “To all women & girls: Join the journey in Engineering, Science and Technology.” As part of this initiative, the University offers 50% scholarships to all girls who choose to study in undergraduate programmes of its School of Engineering. Through this campaign and its multifaceted activities, Frederick University contributes to the goals of gender equality and the elimination of gender stereotypes, as a member of the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network.

The campaign is held under the auspices of the Commissioner for Gender Equality, Ms. Josie Christodoulou.