Stakeholders push for STEAMinist integration in Bauchi govt policies to empower girls, curb GBV, drive youth innovation
By Ahmed Ahmed
Stakeholders in Bauchi State have called on the government to formally integrate STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education into its policy framework, emphasizing its potential to empower girls, combat gender-based violence (GBV), and strengthen youth innovation.
The call was made during a policy brief presentation organised by the Girl-Child Values Support Initiative (GSVSI) with support from the French Embassy Fund (FEF OSC 2025).
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Blessing Gidado, a civil society advocate, stressed that embedding STEAM education in state policies would open pathways for girls and young women, including those with special needs.
She said the model goes beyond academics, providing practical skills and a platform for empowerment.
According to her, “STEAM-based programmes can include technical classes such as web design and 3D modelling, advocacy training, and creative projects like murals and drama targeted at addressing gender-based violence.
”Entrepreneur Mr. Sani Mohammed added that the STEAMinist project would boost creativity, confidence, and technical expertise among youths.
He noted that equipping young people with digital and artistic abilities would enable them to drive social change and contribute meaningfully to development.Highlighting sustainability,
Mr. Zuriel Oluwatosin, Senior Programmes Officer at GSVSI, underscored the need for integrating the STEAMinist model across key ministries, including Education, Women Affairs, and Youth and Sports Development.
He described the STEAM-GBV Livelihood Hub model as an innovative, rights-based, and economically viable strategy aligned with the VAPP Law and AGILE Project.
The proposed model seeks to transform women from passive beneficiaries of protection to active creators, innovators, and economic contributors.
Stakeholders urged the Ministry of Women Affairs to approve a pilot framework for STEAM-GBV hubs, establish a technical working group, mobilize funding, and launch the first three hubs within 12 months.
With Bauchi’s BICT Law and growing momentum around STEM, stakeholders believe a structured STEAM Youth Innovation Pathway could position the state as a North-East tech hub.
They called on the Ministry of Education to integrate STEAM programming into ICT-in-Education structures ahead of the next academic cycle.
They emphasized that the successful STEAMinist pilot demonstrates the readiness of Bauchi youth to thrive when provided with structure, mentorship, and opportunity.
