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The World Smarts STEM Challenge is funded by the National Science Foundation and implemented by IREX.
About the Virtual Global STEM Exhibit and Expo
Over the past eight weeks, middle and high school students in Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia, and across Ghana virtually collaborated on binational teams to develop science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) solutions to real-world challenges facing their communities using the human-centered design thinking process and Sustainable Development Goals framework. Student presentations will be exhibited from Friday, April 21, 2023. The Virtual Global STEM Expo will feature thirteen US-Ghana student teams who will present their STEM solutions live to a panel of industry leaders and special guests. At the end of the event, five teams will also be awarded for demonstrating excellence in STEM Innovation, STEM Application, Cross-Cultural Collaboration, and an All-Star Award.
About the World Smarts STEM Challenge
The World Smarts STEM Challenge is a virtual exchange program that supports STEM education in the United States and Ghana. The program is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and implemented by the International Research and Exchanges Board (IREX) as part of NSF’s Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers applied research program. World Smarts aims to improve student’s STEM, global competence, and cross-cultural communication skills, while enhancing students’ enthusiasm and commitment to STEM learning and careers. IREX partners with North Carolina State University to research how global competence and virtual exchange can expand access to STEM education.
Agenda of the Virtual Global STEM Expo (Live Event)
12:00 PM EDT
4:00 PM GMT
Welcome
12:05 PM EDT
4:05 PM GMT
Opening Remarks
12:10 PM EDT
4:10 PM GMT
Introduction of Expert Reviewers
Janet Antwi Professor of Chemistry The Ohio State University
Cosmos Eminah Lecturer of Science Education University of Education Winneba
Dieynabou Diallo Climate Justice Manager PowerSwitch Action
Team Presentations and Reviewers Feedback
1:10 PM EDT
5:10 PM GMT
Student Reflections
1:20 PM EDT
5:20 PM GMT
Excellence Awards Announcement
Julie Johnson Lead Program Director National Science Foundation
1:25 PM EDT
5:25 PM GMT
Closing Remarks
Participating Schools
Partners and Collaborators
FAQ Frequently Asked questions
The Exhibit showcases students written STEM presentation and video presentations. The Expo is the live event where students will orally present or “pitch” their ideas and STEM prototype to a panel of Expert Reviewers.
To access the Exhibit and Expo, click “View Student Presentations” and enter your email address and password. If this is your first time here, click “New User” and complete the short registration form. Once complete, use the same login to reenter the Exhibit and Expo.
To access the student presentations, click “Exhibit Hall”. If you experience any issues, Please email us at
worldsmarts@getvfairs.io .
To mute the music, please click the music icon from the top left corner and click pause.
You can access the presentations in two ways. You can click on the vertical display banners at the booth OR scroll down and click on the “Video” and "Video" below the booth.
Dr. Janet Antwi is a Professor of Chemistry, a passionate STEM educator, a researcher, and a dynamic speaker. She obtained her Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences with a concentration in medicinal chemistry from The Ohio State University, College of Pharmacy, where she currently serves as a faculty member. She holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the State University of New York at Binghamton. Her research focuses on diseases such as HIV/AIDS and Leishmaniasis, a neglected tropical disease with high prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa and other developing countries. Her contribution to the field has led to publications in high-impact journals. In addition, she has served in many leadership roles both in academia and in her community. Dr. Antwi is an advocate for minorities in STEM, she constantly seeks to inspire, coach and mentor students pursuing STEM degrees and careers.
Mr. Cosmos Eminah is a lecturer in Science Education at the University of Education. His areas of focus include science pedagogy, curriculum evaluation, and STEM. He is passionate about STEM research, educational research, and curriculum studies. He attended the University of Finland, University of Education, Winneba, and the University of Cape Coast.
Ms. Dieynabou Diallo leads the Climate Justice strategy of the PowerSwitch Action network and works with affiliates to drive community-based climate justice solutions. Prior to joining PowerSwitch Action, Dieynabou supported environmental justice communities in North Carolina that were overburdened by unregulated Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations. Through her work, she has built community coalitions in India, worked with teachers from over 30 countries, and worked frequently with communities across West Africa. She also worked in New York City public schools as an educator. Dieynabou holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Management and Certificate in International Development Policy from Duke University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Geography and Sociology from Dartmouth College.