By Esther Onyegbula

HelloPumpkins, in partnership with Global Changemakers, has delivered a community-based hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) workshop for children, taking practical science learning beyond classrooms and into everyday community spaces.

The workshop, led by founder, Jenny Daniels, was supported with a ₦2 million grant (1,000 Swiss Francs) from Global Changemakers, aimed at expanding access to science education and nurturing early interest in innovation among children using low-cost, improvised learning tools.

The strongest focus of the programme was its practical demonstration that science learning can be affordable and easily replicated. Children were taught to build wind turbines using simple household materials such as paper, sticks and bottle caps. The exercise introduced them to basic engineering and problem-solving skills as they designed, tested and modified their creations.

The participants also constructed wind vanes outdoors and used anemometers to observe wind direction and airflow, gaining firsthand understanding of environmental science. One of the participants, Angel Oguze, said she was excited to discover that wind could be measured.

“I didn’t know the wind could be measured like this. My wind vane moved so fast, and I felt like a real engineer,” she said.

In another session focused on colour theory and physics, the children created Newton’s colour spinners, arranging colours on circular discs and observing optical effects as the discs spun. Favour Samuel, a participant, described the experience as surprising and inspiring.

“When my spinner turned white, I screamed. I didn’t know colours could disappear like that. I want to go home and make more,” she said.

Speaking during the programme, Daniels said the goal of HelloPumpkins is to democratise access to science and technology education, especially in underserved communities.

“People often assume that technology is for the most advanced spaces. But its deepest purpose is revealed in the homes and communities where it’s needed most, where opportunity is scarce, and impact can be transformational,” she said.

She added that bringing innovation to grassroots communities helps children see science as something they can practice and not just read about.

According to her, the workshop succeeded in boosting children’s confidence, curiosity and interest in science-driven problem-solving, while also equipping them with practical skills they can replicate at home.

HelloPumpkins stated that it will continue to work with partners to expand access to hands-on STEAM education for children, especially in low-income and underserved communities.

At the close of the event, the children displayed their completed turbines, wind vanes and colour spinners, reflecting increased confidence and a growing interest in science and innovation.