Breaking Barriers: The Jwaneng Mine Maranyane Bokamoso Programme’s STEM Adventure
The Jwaneng Mine Maranyane Bokamoso (JMMB) Programme is a groundbreaking initiative that seeks to empower and advance high-performing young girls by encouraging them to explore careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). From June 9th to June 15th, 2024, the JMMB Programme hosted a Job Shadowing Camp at Jwaneng Mine, offering participants a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and insight into various STEM careers. The camp aimed to inspire the next generation of female leaders in science and engineering by providing real-world exposure to these fields.
The camp began with a strong focus on safety, a core value at Jwaneng Mine. On the first day, students participated in a SHE (Safety, Health, and Environment) & Safety induction. This session emphasized the importance of safety in the workplace and prepared the students for the activities that lay ahead. The induction set the tone for the week, reinforcing the mine’s commitment to operational excellence and safety.
As the camp progressed, the young participants were introduced to various STEM fields through interactive sessions and presentations. Day 2 was filled with engaging activities, including robotics and coding exercises, as well as discussions on innovative solutions for safe mining practices. These activities fostered critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration among the students.
One of the most impactful elements of the camp was the departmental visits and job shadowing opportunities. On Day 3, students had the chance to shadow professionals in different departments at Jwaneng Mine, such as geology, mechanical engineering, and environmental science. These visits allowed the students to observe the daily responsibilities and challenges faced by STEM professionals, giving them valuable insight into the realities of working in these fields. A particularly memorable moment was the focus on the Civil Engineering department, where students met Claire Nelson, a structural engineer at Debswana Jwaneng Mine. Claire shared her journey and experiences in the field, inspiring the young girls with her story of perseverance and success.
Throughout the week, the camp emphasized hands-on learning and collaboration. On Day 5, students participated in team-based projects that required them to apply the knowledge and skills they had gained during the camp. These activities enhanced their technical abilities while also promoting teamwork, communication, and leadership skills qualities essential for success in any career.
As the camp neared its end, the focus shifted to career guidance and planning. Professionals from various STEM fields conducted workshops to help students explore career pathways, educational opportunities, and the skills needed to succeed in STEM. The students left these sessions feeling empowered and better equipped to pursue their future aspirations. The camp concluded with a reflection session and a closing ceremony on the final day. During this time, students, mentors, and organizers celebrated the success of the camp, sharing experiences and reflecting on how the program had influenced their career goals.
The Jwaneng Mine Maranyane Bokamoso Programme has proven to be more than just an educational initiative; it is a transformative experience that empowers young girls to pursue their dreams in STEM fields. The program’s success is largely attributed to the dedication of the professionals at Jwaneng Mine, particularly the female engineers who served as role models throughout the week. Claire Nelson and others provided valuable inspiration and guidance, showing the participants that they too can break barriers and excel in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Continuing to invest in initiatives like the Jwaneng Mine Maranyane Bokamoso Programme, Jwaneng Mine is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of STEM education in Botswana. The program serves as a shining example of how industry and education can work together to create lasting change and inspire the next generation of female leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.