After a 20-year career in the pharmaceutical industry and a decade living in Canada, Jadesola Adedeji returned to Nigeria with her family. Upon their return, she noticed that the educational system had not changed much. It still relied heavily on rote learning with little emphasis on hands-on experiences. Adedeji found that Nigeria’s education system struggles to equip young learners with the critical problem-solving, creativity, critical thinking and analytical skills needed for the 21st century.
The negative impact on her son’s education was evident as he struggled to adjust to the traditional teaching methods used in Nigerian schools. Driven by a desire to offer her children—and other kids in her community—more engaging and inspiring educational experiences, she began exploring alternative learning methods.
Her journey led her to discover STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, which emphasises practical, experiential learning rather than rote memorisation. One of her early inspirations was “Bricks 4 Kidz,” a program that uses LEGO bricks to teach STEM concepts. This discovery aligned with her vision of fostering creativity and critical thinking in children.
During this time, she connected with her co-founder, the Late Dr Funmi Ogunwuyi, who shared a similar passion for innovative education. Together, they founded STEM METS Resources in 2014, aiming to bridge the gap in Nigeria’s educational system by equipping children aged 3 to 13 with essential 21st-century skills through hands-on, project-based STEM programs.
Under Adedeji’s leadership, STEM METS has made significant strides over the past decade. The organisation has impacted over 30,000 learners, providing them with experiential learning opportunities that foster critical thinking and creativity. Their Midcamp training registration fee ranges from ₦125,000.00 ($82.72) to ₦ 140,000.00($92.65).
“I really found the experience interesting and exciting. I found myself waiting for the next mission when we were done with the first.”~Testimonials
Additionally, STEM METS has trained 500 teachers. The organisation has also co-convened the annual STEMFUN Africa Fest events in Nigeria, Ghana, Zambia, and Rwanda, reaching over 16,000 learners.
The co-founders have positioned the organisation to collaborate with global entities such as the Airbus Foundation, Stanbic IBTC Bank, and ARM Holdings, enhancing the quality and reach of its STEM education programmes. The organisation’s ability to attract corporate sponsorships and form strategic partnerships speaks to its credibility, as it has expanded its reach and enhanced the quality of its educational programmes.
Through her leadership, thousands of children have discovered the power of creativity, critical thinking, and innovation skills that will shape the future of Africa’s workforce. As STEM METS continues to expand across borders, Jadesola Adedeji is not just building an organisation; she is crafting a legacy of empowered, future-ready minds poised to transform the world.
