Research on the STEM Education for Empowerment Project (STEEP) indicates that 63% of its female participants secured jobs, compared with 48% of non‑selected applicants and 52% of similar women who did not apply.

Econometric analysis attributes a rise of up to 26% in employment probability to STEEP participation against one comparison group and an 18% increase against another.

Monthly earnings among participants were estimated to be 22% higher than those of non‑participants, underscoring the income benefit of the training.

STEEP is a four‑year initiative aimed at out‑of‑school adolescent girls from vulnerable backgrounds, delivering both technical and soft‑skill instruction to prepare them for STEM careers.

Three cohorts were trained between February 2024 and June 2025 across six counties – Kakamega, Kisii, Kisumu, Nyeri, Siaya and Homa Bay – covering market‑oriented trades such as food production, electrical installation, plumbing and solar photovoltaic work.

Participants reported that the programme challenged traditional gender expectations, with many expressing excitement about working in roles historically dominated by men, such as electricians and plumbers.

Despite these gains, the study notes that technical training alone does not eliminate employment barriers; short training periods, lack of formal certification and costly NITA exam fees were cited as major obstacles.

Some women also faced discrimination and harassment in male‑dominated workplaces, highlighting the need for broader support beyond skills acquisition.

Researchers recommend expanding STEEP to additional marginalised counties, strengthening mentorship and life‑skill components, and forging stronger employer partnerships to secure internships linked to jobs.

Women currently represent only 38% of STEM enrolment in Kenya’s TVET institutions, a gender gap that STEEP aims to narrow through its targeted approach.