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The Association of Nigerians in Portage la Prairie has launched a STEM program for children, blending science and technology projects with the group’s mission of cultural and community service.
Financial secretary and treasurer Oluwasegun Akintajuwa says the program grew directly out of the association’s mission statement, which focuses on cultural identity, integration, and contributing positively to the broader Portage community.
“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 technology early
Social secretary Adijat Ayilara says the program is designed to spark curiosity in children by giving them early exposure to science and technology.
“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 adds the program has two cohorts: one for ages six to eight and another for ages nine to 13. The first six weeks are focused on science, while the second half is dedicated to technology projects such as robotics.
Hands-on learning
Akintajuwa. says students have already carried out a variety of experiments in the science phase.
“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 excitement is obvious among the participants.
“They’re so excited. My own child is part of the program, and he always tells me how much he enjoys it,” adds Ayilara.
Trial phase and future plans
Ayilara says the program began August 15 and will run until October 31. Twenty students are enrolled, each with two activity kits, and two tutors are leading weekly sessions 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 families, supported by a $5,000 grant through 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,” adds Akintajuwa..
The association says it intends to continue the program in the future, building on the success of this first trial run and expanding opportunities for more children in Portage la Prairie.
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