Part 2: Launching the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Championship 2017 at CYEED training center.

On the 12 May 2017, I launched the second part of my on the ground activity of my digital action Campaign at CYEED office, Bamenda. The goal is to create awareness about “Bring a Girl to STEM” campaign and get girls to register and compete for the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) World Championship.

We want to insure that girls and boys have equal access and success at equal levels in international and national STEM programs or competitions to compete and win awards.

This activity will foster my mission to break the stubborn stereotypes about STEM education for girls. This year I will run the MOS Championship at CYEED training center and I need girls to register for this STEM program.

On this day we had a special guest speaker Mr Abah who is the National Coordinator for MOS championship in Cameroon. I am currently working in partnership with him to run this competition which is open to both girls and boys ages 13 to 22. I invited him to CYEED’s computer lab and training center for an information session for students and parents about MOS championship 2017 and to encourage parents to register their daughters.

His brilliant presentation got the girls very excited as he explained the importance of participating such as:

- Receiving an international certification from Microsoft

- Receiving national and international awards.

- The possibility of 6 winners to travel to California, USA for the award celebration.

- Becoming a world champion, connecting with other champions and makingnews and lots more.

Instantly 2 parents registered their daughters. Later during the day after doing social media publicity, I received 3 phone calls from parents asking me to secure a spot for their children. My Facebook in box got full with questions about the registration process.

At the end of the session, I asked the children whose parents did not come to extend the message to their parents when they get home. By the close of that day I had received another 2 calls form some parents to get more information.

Most amazing during this event was when we watched a video of the past female Cameroonian winners of the MOS championship that got the girls shouting. All the participants asked about 3 questions each, showing how interested they are about STEM program.

I was happy to see Mr Abah smile as he swiftly and patiently answered all the questions. I am very excited to run this championship at my center and I will do my best to have a winner or two come from CYEED.

It is very amazing to see girls excited about STEM applications and already inspired to choose STEM education at school, getting encouraged to play a leadership role such as peer-education and later on consider a career in STEM field.

Dear parents you are invited to send your children for the 1 month training right now that will change their lives forever. If you want to be part of this changemaking experience contact me now or tell some other people about it.

Together will double the number of girls that participate in STEM programs and win international awards. Join my campaign, spread the good news and follow#STEM4Girlsand#Mentors4Change.

Stay tuned for our next package!