In a move to close the gender gap in technology and drive innovation across Africa, Interswitch has partnered with Thrive Above and Beyond Foundation to support a practical STEM education programme aimed at young girls.
The initiative, a seven-day THRIVE Girls in STEM Programme, was organised by Thrive Above and Beyond Foundation, a Nigerian non-profit focused on empowering girls in underserved communities. Designed as a Montessori-style bootcamp, the programme provided girls aged 16 to 20 with essential digital skills and hands-on experience in tech. Other collaborators included Wema Bank and Sara by Wema.
Interswitch’s Head of Masterbrand, Communications and CSR, said the company is committed to youth development as a path to prosperity in Africa. She explained that the programme aligns with Interswitch’s social impact goals by equipping young women with practical STEM skills and helping to narrow the gender divide in the tech industry.
The founder of Thrive Above and Beyond Foundation said the programme goes beyond technical training, aiming to build leadership, curiosity, and innovation among young women. She added that the goal is to make STEM less intimidating and empower girls, particularly those from underrepresented communities, to shape their futures with confidence.
The partnership reflects Interswitch’s broader mission to empower the continent through innovation, value creation, and excellence.
