Applications Open for TechGirls STEM Exchange Program

• Sex differences in STEM education are evident from a young age
• Girls are hindered by factors such as a lack of access to and knowledge of digital technology
• Women make up 35% of all STEM graduates worldwide

The issue of gender inequality in education is visible even in the field of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics from a very tender age, where girl students are exposed to issues like a lack of ICT skills.

In different regions, particularly the greater part of Sub-Saharan Africa, less than 1 percent of rural girl students from the poorest backgrounds complete their secondary level of education.

Women in STEM jobs take up only 35 percent of this workforce in the world, and the estimated cost of this gap in girls' education is $15–30 trillion.

The TechGirls STEM Exchange Program is designed to respond to this problem by giving young females comprehensive knowledge of STEM and mentorship during a critical moment in their educational journey and career growth.

The program for 2026 TechGirls will offer 111 fully funded opportunities for girls aged 15-17 from 37 countries, including a 23-day visit to the US with Virginia Tech University and seven months of mentorship post-visit.

List of participating countries Sub-Saharan Africa, East Asia/Pacific, Europe/ Eurasia, Middle East & North Africa, South/Central Asia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan.

Western Hemisphere Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, Suriname United States13 posts Candidates are expected to have a strong aptitude for STEM, be interested in technology careers, and be proficient in English.

The program takes care of the cost factors like visa, travel, accommodation, meals, transportations, and cultural events, in addition to health insurance.