STEAM EDUCATION FOR GIRLS IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES: IMPACT ON EMPOWERMENT AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

Abstract

This study examined the role of STEAM education in promoting girls’ empowerment and academic performance in developing countries in relation to Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5). Female students in many developing regions continue to face educational inequalities, limited learning resources, and socio-cultural barriers in science and technology-related disciplines. STEAM education offers interdisciplinary and innovative learning opportunities that enhance creativity, confidence, participation, and academic achievement. The study adopted a quantitative cross-sectional survey design. Data were collected from 200 participants, including 170 female students and 30 teachers through structured questionnaires and academic performance indicators. Statistical techniques, including descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analysis, were employed using SPSS. The findings revealed that STEAM education significantly improved girls’ empowerment, participation, and academic performance, contributing positively to gender equity and educational development aligned with SDG 5 Gender Equality.