TikTok has launched a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) feed for educational purposes for users in Sub-Saharan Africa.
With over a billion users worldwide, TikTok is a platform where many curious individuals seek to expand their knowledge on various subjects, including social issues, art, and education. This is evident in the success of TikTok’s #BookTok, which boasts 47 million video creations from a community of avid readers sharing their next reads. The #LearnOnTikTok initiative caters to intellectual users, offering interesting facts, tips on optimizing TikTok, and niche subjects.
“TikTok is more than just entertainment; it’s a platform where users come to discover new things—be it a restaurant, a new artist, or a new language. The #STEMTok initiative broadens the scope of discovery for our users while educating them with enriching content,” said Boniswa Sidwaba, Head of Content Operations for Sub-Saharan Africa at TikTok.
Education, particularly STEM education, is a vital driver of inclusive growth and sustainable development. Countries with a strong STEM workforce tend to be more competitive, productive, and experience higher economic growth. Advancing STEM education can help Africa fully leverage the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), enabling the continent to bypass traditional development routes and create new opportunities for trade, investment, entrepreneurship, and collaboration. Focusing on STEM education is crucial for achieving other Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
With 25% of TikTok’s global user base being teenagers, the platform holds the potential to shape and inspire an entire generation. Through the STEM feed, young users can enhance their understanding of topics like bacteria, planetary science, astrophysics, technology, and robotics. Parents and guardians can take comfort knowing that TikTok offers more than just dance trends and music; it connects users to a community of shared interests.
“The STEM community is growing, bringing with it a diverse array of passionate content creators eager to share their knowledge, insights, and experiences,” concludes Sidwaba.
Here’s an edited version with improved precision and conciseness:
Creators to Watch: African STEM Educators on TikTok
This selection highlights African content creators who are making STEM education engaging and accessible through TikTok.
- Aisha Bande (@chemistrywithaishabande): Nigerian educator simplifying complex chemistry concepts for students and enthusiasts.
- Mpho T Makhema (@mphokatmakhema): South African math teacher (grades R-12) providing clear lessons and interactive problem-solving.
- Eric Mwaura (@profmwaura01): Kenyan creator exploring interactive math and science, explaining phenomena like gravity hills and infant perception of time.
- UcheOflagos (@UcheOflagos): Nigerian tech enthusiast empowering aspiring African programmers with coding tutorials and career guidance.
- Samkelo Mhlophe (@thishawakutiktok): South African Life Science teacher using creative lessons and songs to demystify STEM.
- Duncanzz (@duncanzz): Kenyan tech expert offering practical technology tips and solutions.
- Oge Hezeonu (@ogehezeonu): Nigerian digital innovator covering AI, cybersecurity, and consumer technology trends.
- Homework Help 365 Days (@homework_help365_days): South African page simplifying STEM with visual lessons and past paper analysis.
- Wambui (@hikingtechie): Kenyan creator combining hiking with tech reviews, focusing on affordable student laptops and gadgets.
- First Class Lower (@first_class_lower): Nigerian science communicator making STEM relatable through practical explanations.
- Jessy Lesley (@jessy): Kenyan creator sharing engaging STEM content.
This TikTok initiative fosters a knowledge-driven community and provides valuable educational resources for African youth.
