Empowering Women and Girls in STEM

“Research shows that diversity improves problem solving, productivity, innovation and ultimately the bottom line – we need the female perspective in technology.”

– Regina Honu, CEO of Soronko Academy

Throughout history, numerous women have made groundbreaking contributions to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), paving the way for future generations. Among them was Marie Curie, the first woman to win a Nobel Prize for her work in physics and chemistry. At NASA, black female mathematicians and programmers like Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson contributed essential calculations and played a critical role in launching the first astronauts from the United States of America to the Moon.

Despite these achievements, women, particularly women of African descent, remain under-represented in STEM fields, facing barriers such as gender bias, limited access to opportunities, and a lack of representation in leadership roles. Currently, UNESCO estimates that women make up only 28% of engineering graduates worldwide, and in Africa, they fill only 20% of jobs in science and engineering. These shocking figures mean that women are much less likely to work in skilled, high-paid professions.

At African Child Trust (ACT), we are dedicated to changing this narrative. Through the Martin Phillips Girls University Scholarship Fund (MPF), we support the education of young women from poor background in improvised countries across sub-Saharan Africa in STEM focused university degrees. By equipping them with the education and skills needed for careers in these related fields, we empower them to break barriers and become future leaders in science and technology.

Inspiring Women and Girls to Follow Their Science Dreams

The MPF was established in 2020 by Martin Phillips, an ACT supporter. Martin recognised that these societal barriers were preventing many talented young women in Africa from pursuing a STEM education. Determined to make a difference, he collaborated with ACT to create the scholarship program that provides financial support, mentorship, and encouragement to aspiring female scientists, engineers, and innovators from poor background in Africa. Since its inception, the MFP scholarship has enabled several young women across sub-Saharan Africa to access higher education, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to excel in STEM careers and drive positive change in their communities.

MPF scholars

Among the first beneficiaries were schoolmates Mgala and Justina from Kagera region in the northwest of Tanzania. They were chosen for their outstanding academic performance despite their poor backgrounds and the significant challenges they faced. Still, they were committed to their goal of making a meaningful impact in society.

Mgala, Tanzania

Mgala received support from ACT when her father’s passed away, which left her mother to care for her and her five siblings all by herself. Always ambitious, Mgala aspired to study Chemistry and, with the MPF scholarship, pursued a degree course in the subject at the University of Dodoma. She graduated in 2024 and soon after secured an internship with a microfinance bank, where she is gaining invaluable experience. But she continues to work towards her goal of becoming a Chemistry teacher to inspire young girls in her community to pursue their dreams.

“The impact of your support goes beyond education— it empowers individuals like me to build meaningful careers and contribute positively to society. I strongly encourage ACT to continue helping other young girls pursue their dreams, as I am a testament to how life-changing this initiative can be.”

– Mgala, Tanzania, 2024

Justina, Tanzania

An orphan from an early age and raised by her uncle, a smallholder farmer in rural Tanzania, Justina had a rough start to life. Educated with ACT support, she quickly recognised the impact of climate change in her community and was inspired to make a difference. She received the MPF scholarship to study for a BSc degree in Geography and Environmental Studies at the University of Dodoma and graduated in 2024. She is hoping to work in her field, but in the meantime, she has a job with a microfinance company that is supporting small entrepreneurs and on the back of this has co-founded a fashion salon. But she remains dedicated to a career in the environmental sector.

In her recent communication with ACT, Justina wrote:

“I am deeply grateful to the Martin Phillips Girls University Fund and ACT for their incredible support throughout my studies. ACT has played a significant role in my journey, and I am proud to be part of the ACT family.”

Justina, Tanzania 2025

Help us to support more young women in STEM

When girls see women succeeding in fields historically dominated by men, it helps to break down barriers and encourages them to pursue their own ambitions. By donating to the Martin Phillips Fund, you are helping to challenge the gender imbalance in STEM and creating more role models for young girls to inspire the next generation of innovators. This year, we aim to raise £3,000 to support another young woman to receive a university education (£750 per year for 4 years). Let change start with you. Click here to donate.