The Association of Nigerians in Portage la Prairie has launched a STEM program for youngsters, mixing science and expertise initiatives with the group’s mission of cultural and neighborhood service.
Financial secretary and treasurer Oluwasegun Akintajuwa says the program grew instantly out of the association’s mission assertion, which focuses on cultural identification, integration, and contributing positively to the broader Portage neighborhood.
“Our mission is to cultivate a supportive and vibrant Nigerian community that promotes cultural identity, facilitates integration, and contributes positively to the broader Portage la Prairie society through community service, cultural events, and educational programs,” notes Akintajuwa.
“So you see, we want to create a vibrant community through service, cultural engagement, and education. The STEM program is born out of that mission, designed to equip the next generation with problem-solving skills, creativity, and confidence to thrive in tomorrow’s world.”
Introducing science and expertise early
Social secretary Adijat Ayilara says the program is designed to spark curiosity in kids by giving them early publicity to science and expertise.
“Technology and science cannot be overemphasized in today’s world. We want to spark the interest of our young children by creating this program, introducing them to science and technology at a younger age,” says Ayilara.
She provides the program has two cohorts: one for ages six to eight and one other for ages 9 to 13. The first six weeks are centered on science, whereas the second half is devoted to expertise initiatives akin to robotics.
Hands-on studying
Akintajuwa. says college students have already carried out quite a lot of experiments in the science section.
“We just concluded a project on volcanic eruptions. The students built and molded their own volcanoes, then created different eruptions in class. For the younger ones, there were also molding activities and a chemical reaction experiment with oil and detergents. The next phase will focus on building robots,” says Akintajuwa.
Ayilara notes the joy is clear among the many contributors.
“They’re so excited. My own child is part of the program, and he always tells me how much he enjoys it,” provides Ayilara.
Trial section and future plans
Ayilara says the program started August 15 and can run till October 31. Twenty college students are enrolled, every with two exercise kits, and two tutors are main weekly classes at Red River College.
“They gave us classrooms for two hours every Friday, and we wouldn’t have achieved this without their support. We also want to thank PCRC, who have been so supportive from the beginning,” continues Ayilara.
Akintajuwa. says the program is free for households, supported by a $5,000 grant by the Portage Community Revitalization Corporation.
“This initiative isn’t just about teaching science, technology, engineering, and math. It’s about planting seeds of curiosity and resilience in children so they can grow into future leaders,” provides Akintajuwa..
The association says it intends to proceed the program in the long run, constructing on the success of this primary trial run and increasing alternatives for extra kids in Portage la Prairie.
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