KINGSTON, Jamaica—University and high school students across Jamaica are set to benefit from a national science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programme aimed at transforming opportunities for young people in the field.

The recently launched the UWI-UNICEF Walking in Her Footsteps, backed by UNICEF, is an expansion of the Walking in Her Footsteps (WIHFS) initiative. Conceived in 2022 by Dr Marvadeen Singh-Wilmot, senior lecturer in chemistry, the programme is designed to connect young women with mentors, role models, and real-world experiences in order to increase female representation in STEM.

“Mentorship is not just about science; it’s about equity, confidence, and opportunity,” said Dr Singh-Wilmot. “By walking in the footsteps of those who came before, our students—girls and boys alike—are learning how to carve their own paths.”

Dr Singh-Wilmot, who has long served the international community on matters of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in STEM, emphasised that Jamaica must prioritise equity in STEM in order to harness the full potential of its people.

“On average, the number of males enrolled in university STEM programmes has declined significantly,” she explained. “At the same time, girls are underrepresented at the highest levels of leadership in STEM. Unless we address both challenges together, we risk leaving too much of our talent behind.”

Supported by UNICEF, the EM² programme also aims to address the broader challenge of declining student performance in mathematics and science.

Key components of the EM² programme include targeted teacher training and the launch of Jamaica’s first Special Mathematics Olympiad for students with disabilities—a move designed to promote inclusivity and build a stronger foundation for a STEM-ready workforce.

Key elements of the EM² expansion:

National Reach

Participation is expanding beyond UWI and UTECH to include universities such as Northern Caribbean University (NCU), Caribbean Maritime University (CMU), and MICO University College.

New Pods Model

High school students are paired with undergraduates, postgraduates, and STEM professionals in intergenerational mentorship groups.

Teacher Integration

Teachers and guidance counsellors will be trained to embed mentorship experiences into classroom teaching and school culture.

Community Engagement

Students will be encouraged to share their mentorship experiences publicly, ensuring the benefits extend beyond individual participants.

STEM Tours and Workshops

Participants will receive training in leadership and entrepreneurship, and will engage with STEM industry leaders, reinforcing the connection between STEM education and national development.