AYV News, August 26, 2025
The STEM Holiday Club 2025 returned to the Sierra Leone Grammar School for the 3rd annual Tech Bootcamp, with this year’s theme “Advancing Innovation.”
The programme continues its mission to equip young Sierra Leoneans with forward-facing skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM).
This year’s STEM Club introduced an exciting focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly in Video, Audio, Photography, and Design, providing students with hands-on exposure to the tools shaping modern creative industries. Learners explored ethical use of AI in storytelling, editing, sound engineering, and visual content creation—an essential skillset in today’s digital world.
Classes included:
Mathematics for Problem Solving
Chess for Strategic Thinking
Entrepreneurship for Real-World Impact
These modules broaden the cognitive, creative, and entrepreneurial horizons of participants, reinforcing a holistic approach to innovation and problem-solving for Sierra Leone and beyond.
Programme Highlights
● AI-powered workshops in Digital Media
● Hands-on courses in Digital Literacy, Coding, Robotics, and Graphic Design
● Interactive sessions with international STEM and tech experts. Guest speakers included Jasper Sembie Director of DSTI, Nashito Kulala, structural Engineer and Music Producer, Hannah Yankson, Media Professional AYV Media and many others.
● Group challenges and student showcases in Entrepreneurship & Chess
● Daily nutritious meals and transport support
● Final Presentation Day to celebrate student achievements and a rousing keynote from Country Director, Plan International, Madam Muniratu Issifu
The STEM Holiday Club continues to grow and inspire with over 250 students with 50/50 gender mix were selected this year from a competitive pool, representing 46 different schools and showcasing excellence in diversity and academic achievement. Supporting this vibrant cohort is a dedicated team of approximately 52 staff members.
This year’s STEM Holiday Club is proud to introduce 11 paid internship opportunities for university students passionate about STEM and media. Interns will work directly within specialist streams—Coding, Robotics, and Digital Multimedia—gaining real-world experience while supporting the delivery of workshops. These roles offer meaningful engagement with industry professionals, fostering mentorship, career exposure, and the development of portfolio-worthy projects. By bridging academia and practical innovation, the programme strengthens the pipeline of skilled local talent ready to drive Sierra Leone’s tech future.
Checkmate to Limits—Chess Champions Empower Tomorrow’s Innovators.”
As part of this year’s STEM Holiday Club, a special collaboration with the Sierra Leone Chess Federation was unveiled—bringing high-level strategy and inspiration straight to the classroom. These national champions lead dynamic sessions where children not only learn the fundamentals of chess but also develop vital cognitive skills such as focus, strategic planning, and resilience. The programme promotes confidence and leadership through mentorship and play, making chess a cornerstone of this year’s commitment to holistic, hands-on learning. It’s a partnership that proves young minds flourish when STEM meets strategy.
SLGS Principal Rev. Canon Leonard Ken Davies states:
“The continued success of the STEM Holiday Club proves that Sierra Leonean students are hungry for innovation. We’re proud to nurture that potential.”
AWMS Principal Madam Williams adds:
“Maths, media, and AI are powerful career catalysts when blended with creativity. This is the kind of enrichment our children need.”
Powered by Alumni & Partners: Led by alumni of Sierra Leone Grammar School and Annie Walsh Memorial School, the STEM Holiday Club is driven by a shared vision to expand access to high-impact STEM learning experiences.
The organisers actively welcome collaboration from corporate and philanthropic partners who are committed to fostering youth empowerment, digital literacy, and gender-inclusive education in Sierra Leone and beyond.
Special thanks to One and Ultra One for their generous support in providing enhanced internet connectivity and custom T-shirts for participants—both vital in creating an inspiring and connected learning environment.
For sponsorship opportunities, partnership enquiries, or press registration, please contact:
Donald Smith
📧 stemclub@slgs.edu.sl
📞 +232 79 63 18 18
