WiSTEM – Session 2
January 30, 2026 · 3:30 AM - 6:30 AM @ Colombo District, R/Deiyagala Vidyalaya
Description
The WiSTEM Project is an educational outreach initiative aimed at inspiring and guiding school students toward Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education and career pathways. In today’s rapidly evolving world, STEM plays a vital role in technological advancement, economic growth, and solving global challenges. However, many school students,especially young girls—lack sufficient exposure, guidance, and motivation to pursue STEM subjects and careers. This gap is often caused by limited awareness, social stereotypes, lack of role models, and inadequate access to practical learning opportunities. WiSTEM was conceptualized to address these challenges by creating an engaging platform that connects school students with university students, young professionals, and experienced IEEE members. The project is organized by the IEEE Sri Lanka Section Women in Engineering, in collaboration with the IEEE Women in Engineering Student Branch Affinity Group of SLTC and IEEE Young Professionals Sri Lanka. It primarily targets G.C.E. Ordinary Level students, as this stage plays a crucial role in shaping academic decisions and future career directions. A key focus of WiSTEM is encouraging greater female participation in STEM fields. Despite increasing awareness, many girls still hesitate to pursue science and technology-related paths due to societal expectations and a lack of visible role models. WiSTEM directly addresses this issue by providing motivational guidance, sharing real-life experiences, and highlighting the achievements of women in STEM. These efforts aim to build confidence, self-belief, and ambition, empowering young girls to envision themselves as future innovators and leaders. The program is delivered as an interactive, on-site educational session at selected schools. Students are introduced to the concept of STEM and its relevance to everyday life, national development, and global innovation. Through relatable examples, discussions, and hands-on activities, the sessions make learning engaging and accessible, helping students develop curiosity and problem-solving skills. WiSTEM also emphasizes academic and career guidance, clearly explaining how school-level STEM subjects connect to higher education and diverse career opportunities. Students receive guidance on Advanced Level subject selection, which is especially valuable for those with limited access to career counseling. In addition, students are exposed to a wide range of STEM careers, emerging technologies, and industry trends at both local and international levels. The project’s impact extends beyond a single event. By increasing awareness, motivation, and confidence, WiSTEM aims to positively influence students’ academic choices and long-term aspirations, particularly fostering a sense of belonging for female students in STEM. More than a one-time outreach, WiSTEM represents a step toward building a more inclusive, informed, and empowered STEM community through collaboration and mentorship.
Agenda
09:00 AM - Lighting the Oil Lamp 09:05 AM - Welcome Speech 09:10 AM - Speech by Mrs. Nil Upuli Ekanayaka 09:30 AM - STEM Presentation 10:00 AM - Speech by the Principal 10:20 AM - Fun Activities 11:00 AM - Giving gift packs 11:30 AM - Vote of Thanks 11:40 AM - Refreshments 12:00 PM - Event Conclusion