STEM lessons in Somali for 500 students in 10 schools

Science and math are traditionally taught in English, Bilan Ramadan says, and many Somali-speaking students lose confidence and disengage from these fields. She created STEMConnect to bridge that language gap.

The platform offers short lessons, videos, quizzes, peer tutoring, all delivered in the Somali language. It works on mobile devices and computers, has offline functionality for remote areas without internet, and uses gamified learning to keep students engaged.

“I am a purpose-driven young leader who uses innovation and entrepreneurship to make education inclusive, accessible, and impactful for all learners”

Bilan Ramadan

So far it has reached 10 schools. That is over 500 students, who she says now report a clearer understanding of concepts and improved classroom confidence.

Bilan is a high school student at the Academy for Science and Technology and an advocate for girls' education. She reached the semi-finals of the Emerging Innovators Awards 2026.

Her interest in STEM grew, she says, through studying Mathematics and Science at school. "I like asking questions and finding logical answers instead of memorizing information," she says. She is an active member of her school's STEM Club. She describes STEMConnect as a student-led project, where she worked with peers on idea development, content planning and how technology can support learning in low-resource environments.

"Working on STEMConnect taught me the importance of research, user feedback, and designing solutions based on real community needs," she says.

She now runs her STEM programs online in partnership with a distance learning academy. "Growing up in Somaliland, I have seen many challenges in areas such as education, health, and access to technology," she says. "These experiences made me curious about how scientific ideas can create solutions and improve people’s lives."