Algerian students perform low in science and in mathematics because the public education system is outdated, failing to provide students with a modern education with a focus on STEM fields. In order to help students increase their performance in the classroom, Oumaima started STEPS (Science Technology Engineering Programs), which addresses this issue by sparking interest and raising curiosity of Algerian students through hands on activities to introduce them to STEM fields. Oumaima also believes that her organization should advocate for a change in the Algerian education system through its work with students, teachers and school administrators.

Five-Year Project Goals:

• Open a STEPS Center which would provide after-school programs for students interested in STEM fields
• Expand the organization so that it can support a full-time staff instead of relying solely on volunteers
• Advocate for a student-centered, hands on, and updated science and technology curriculum in Algerian schools
• Provide training for similar initiatives in other regions of Algeria

Organization Information: STEPS

STEPS organizes workshops for students in order to introduce them to STEM fields and spark students' interest through hands on activities and experiments. STEPS' workshops include Biology Day, Engineering Day, Scratch and Arduino, and Design Thinking Day. The organization used UConn award funding for marketing workshops, printing banners and stickers, and providing fresh and healthy lunches for the students attending the workshops.