This gender transformative project opened new pathways for adolescent girls to explore robotics, artificial intelligence, and programmingfields where girls remain underrepresented.

Implemented across six directorates in West Bank, the initiative reached 120 students aged 12 to 17, with girls making up around 92% of participants. Through 65 hours of in-person STEM training and a dedicated module on gender and inclusion, students were introduced to programming, robotics, sensor integration, hardware control, and basic AI concepts. They applied this knowledge to design and build robotic solutions addressing critical challenges related to womens rights, livelihoods, health, and climate change.

Many students entered the program with little or no prior experience, yet quickly developed the confidence to build, test, and refine their projects. Trainers noted a visible increase in students problem-solving skills, teamwork, creativity, and self-confidenceespecially among girls who discovered new interests and a stronger belief in their ability to succeed in STEM fields. By nurturing these skills and mindsets, the program not only expands future education and career pathways but also empowers youth, particularly young women, to generate employment opportunities and contribute to building more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable communities.

One of the projects lasting contributions was the development and pilot testing of three inclusive and gender responsive national training manuals in Robotics, AI, and Programming. These resources will help the education system integrate inclusive, high-quality STEM content more effectively and expand similar learning opportunities for students across Palestine.

Girls in Tech: Transforming Futures with STEM and Digitalization initiative

the Growing Importance of Girls in STEM and Digitalization

The world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is evolving rapidly, driven by groundbreaking digital innovations.Yet, despite these advancements, the portrayal of girls and young women in STEM remains disproportionately low. The Girls in Tech initiative is changing this narrative by empowering young girls to explore, learn, and excel in STEM and digital careers, ensuring a diversified and inclusive technological future.

why Focus on Girls in Tech?

• Bridging the Gender Gap: Only about 28% of the world’s researchers are women, and even fewer pursue careers in computing and engineering.
• Economic Empowerment: STEM careers offer some of the highest-paying,fastest-growing job opportunities globally.
• Innovation through Diversity: Gender diverse teams bring broader perspectives,driving innovation and problem-solving.
• Addressing Global Challenges: Women in tech are pivotal in developing digital solutions for health, education, sustainability, and more.

Core Components of the Girls in Tech Initiative

This initiative supports girls through multiple strategic avenues to inspire and prepare them for successful STEM careers:

1. Education and Skill-building

• Access to coding bootcamps, robotics workshops, and digital literacy courses tailored for girls.
• Hands-on STEM experiments and projects fostering critical thinking and creativity.
• Integration of digital tools like AI, machine learning fundamentals, and data analytics in learning modules.

2. Mentorship and Role Models

• Connecting girls with women professionals who have excelled in STEM fields.
• Career guidance,motivational talks,and real-world advice through webinars and panels.
• Peer mentoring groups encouraging collaboration, networking, and confidence-building.

3. Access to Technology and Resources

• Provision of laptops, internet access, and software tools, especially in underserved communities.
• Partnerships with tech companies to facilitate internships, scholarships, and innovation challenges.
• Online platforms offering curated STEM content that is engaging and girl-centered.

Benefits of Encouraging Girls in Tech and Digitalization

Encouraging and equipping girls to embark on STEM journeys yields both personal and societal benefits:

Case Studies: Impactful Girls in Tech Programs

Case Study 1: The DigiGirls Coding Academy

DigiGirls launched a free, global online coding bootcamp focused on beginners aged 10 to 18.With over 5,000 graduates, 70% have pursued further STEM education or tech internships. The program’s success comes from interactive coding challenges and community-driven mentorship.

Case Study 2: STEMHer Local Hackathons

STEMHer organizes hackathons exclusively for girls, encouraging collaboration to solve real-world problems using technology.The events have created prototypes addressing environmental sustainability and health diagnostics, with winning teams receiving seed funding for startups.

Practical Tips for Empowering Girls in STEM and Digitalization

• encourage Curiosity: Provide girls with STEM toys, kits, and books from an early age to spark interest.
• Create Safe Spaces: Establish clubs and online groups where girls can share,learn,and experiment without fear of judgment.
• Highlight Female Role Models: Share stories and biographies of women tech leaders and innovators.
• collaborate with Schools: Advocate for inclusive curricula emphasizing girls’ participation in STEM activities.

First-Hand Voices: Girls Speak on Tech Empowerment

“Joining the Girls in Tech workshop was a turning point – I went from never coding to building an app that helps my community track water quality. The mentorship gave me confidence I never imagined I had!” – Sofia, 16

“Digital skills changed everything for me. As a girl from a rural area, I now see options and opportunities beyond what I dreamed. Tech is unlocking not just careers but also empowerment.” – Amina, 19

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UNESCO completed this initiative in close partnership with Palestine Polytechnic University and the Ministry of Education, reflecting a shared commitment to empowering Palestinian youthparticularly girlswith the digital skills and opportunities essential in an increasingly technology-driven world.