W.TEC Q1 2026 Impact Report: Celebrating 18 Years of Empowering Girls and Women Through Technology

by May 28, 2026After-school, Capacity Development, Inclusion, news & blog, Press Release, Research0 comments

W.TEC Q1 2026 Impact Report: Celebrating 18 Years of Empowering Girls and Women Through Technology

The first quarter of 2026 has been a remarkable start to the year for W.TEC as we continue our mission of empowering girls and women with the confidence, skills, opportunities, and support they need to thrive in technology and leadership.

This year also marks a major milestone for our organisation — 18 years of impact, innovation, and excellence.

Over nearly two decades, W.TEC has remained committed to creating inclusive pathways for girls and women in STEM, digital literacy, leadership, and future-focused careers. Today, we proudly celebrate having impacted over 60,000 women and girls through our programmes, partnerships, mentorship initiatives, and learning opportunities across Nigeria.

Expanding STEM Access Through the W.TEC Academy Programme

In Q1 2026, the W.TEC Academy Programme reached 467 girls across Lagos, Ondo, and Kwara States, providing engaging STEM education, digital learning opportunities, mentorship, and hands-on experiences designed to strengthen confidence and interest in science and technology.

The impact continues to be measurable and encouraging:

  • 85% of participating girls reported improved understanding of STEM subjects
  • Students gained exposure to practical technology learning experiences
  • School-based STEM clubs continued to nurture curiosity, innovation, and collaboration

These outcomes reinforce the importance of early access to quality STEM education for girls and the transformative role schools and educators play in shaping future innovators.

Inspiring Girls During International Day of the Girl Child Celebrations

W.TEC also commemorated the International Day of the Girl Child by engaging 550 girls across Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt through impactful sessions focused on technology, leadership, empowerment, and future career opportunities.

The results were equally inspiring:

  • 80% of participants showed increased interest in STEM-related fields
  • Girls were introduced to new possibilities within technology and innovation
  • Participants connected with mentors, facilitators, and role models who encouraged them to dream bigger

These engagements continue to demonstrate the power of representation, exposure, and community in helping girls see themselves as future leaders and changemakers.

Launching New Digital Skills Initiatives

As technology rapidly shapes the future of work and learning, W.TEC remains committed to ensuring girls and women are not left behind.

In Q1, we launched two new digital skills training projects under the SHECAN with ICT Programme, expanding opportunities for participants to build relevant, future-ready skills in technology and digital innovation.

These projects are designed to strengthen digital readiness, improve access to technology education, and equip participants with practical skills that support long-term economic empowerment and career growth.

Strengthening School and Community Partnerships

Collaboration remains central to our work and impact.

During the first quarter, W.TEC partnered with 24 secondary schools, helping us extend our reach and deepen our educational programmes within local communities.

We also conducted visits to 8 strategic partners as part of ongoing conversations and collaborations for 2026 programming and impact initiatives.

These partnerships continue to play a critical role in expanding opportunities for girls and strengthening sustainable support systems for STEM education and digital inclusion.

Celebrating Our Alumnae Community

One of the most rewarding aspects of W.TEC’s journey is witnessing the continued growth and achievements of our alumnae community.

This quarter, we hosted the 2026 Virtual Alumnae Hangout, creating a space for former participants to reconnect, share experiences, network, and inspire one another.

Our alumnae remain a powerful reflection of the long-term impact of investing in girls and young women through technology and mentorship.

Building the Future Together

Across every training session, mentorship opportunity, research initiative, classroom visit, and digital skills programme, one thing remains clear:

When girls and women are empowered with knowledge and opportunity, they don’t just participate in the future — they help shape it.

As we celebrate the progress made in Q1, we also recognise that none of this impact would be possible without the continued support of our partners, volunteers, facilitators, alumni, schools, sponsors, and the wider W.TEC community.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

And this is only the beginning.

We are excited for what lies ahead in 2026 as we continue to expand opportunities, deepen impact, and inspire the next generation of girls and women in technology.

Read the full Q1 report here: https://wteconline.org/w-tec-2026-quarter-1-report/

#WTEC #WomenInTech #STEMEducation #DigitalSkills #WomenEmpowerment