Girls_Do_Code- Slovenia

About the project

The project has been implemented in primary schools across Slovenia since the 2019/2020 school year and targets girls aged 9-14, offering the opportunity to learn, free of charge, the basis of programming and logical thinking. The aim of the project is to increase girls’ interest in technology and STEM occupations and to raise the level of digital literacy among them.

The Girls_Do_Code course brings girls to know:

• general computer literacy;
• basic programming concepts,
• problem solving methods;
• develop and programme at least 20 of their own projects and games,
• safe use of the Internet

The programme consists of 22 school hours, delivered during the school year in computer rooms at primary schools across Slovenia.

Digital School d.o.o. and Simbioza – socialno podjetje are the project initiators and organisers. Digital School educates teachers and external contractors certified by Microsoft Innovative Educator (MIE), and offers a comprehensive curriculum, software, education, mentoring and assistance at every step. Certified teachers, assisted by a school coordinator, provide education for girls during the school year under their mentoring and curriculum at the selected school.

The project is funded by the Slovenian Ministry of Digital Transformation, with the support of sponsors including A1, BTC City, Dewesoft, Outfit7 and Sportradar.

In addition, the project also provides practice and sharing of experience within the community. Every year, a full-day Hackathon is organised as the final event of the school year, and a final presentation of the projects to parents and teachers takes place at each school. This allows girls to familiarise themselves with the real world and learn how their skills can benefit from industry. Participants also explore additional topics such as 3D modelling and printing, mobile app development, and robot programming.

Results

Since its launch, the Girls_Do_Code programme has achieved significant impact: over 1,500 girls have completed the programme across more than 30 schools in Slovenia. Participants have created over 1,000 programmed projects. Over 250 girls have taken part in the GirlsDoCode Hackathon. According to post-programme surveys, 93% of participants reported increased enthusiasm for programming as a result of the course.

Why is Girls_Do_Code a good practice?

The Girls_Do_Code project provides a comprehensive approach to girls’ education in technology and programming, promotes gender equality in the ICT sector and challenges prejudices about STEM women.