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Lasse Leponiemi

Chairman, The HundrED Foundation
first.last@hundred.org

Al-Aql Yatanafas Initiative

place Saudi Arabia

Empowering girls through hands-on, project-based STEM learning

Al-Aql Yatanafas Initiative is a community-based STEM education initiative founded in 2019 to empower girls through hands-on, project-based learning. The initiative provides inclusive learning environments where students explore science and technology through practical projects, mentorship, and equitable access to resources, building confidence, creativity, and long-term engagement in STEM.

Overview

Information on this page is provided by the innovator and has not been evaluated by HundrED.

Updated January 2026
Web presence

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Countries
Students upper
Target group
I hope to see education become more inclusive and empowering, where girls have equal access to hands-on STEM learning and feel confident exploring science and technology. Through this innovation, I aim to shift learning from theory to meaningful practice, helping students develop confidence, curiosity, and a strong sense of belonging in education.

About the innovation

Why did you create this innovation?

I created this innovation after observing that many girls had curiosity and potential in science and technology but limited access to hands-on learning, tools, and mentorship. I wanted to create an inclusive learning space where girls could explore STEM through real projects, build confidence, and feel that they truly belong in these fields, regardless of their background or resources.

What does your innovation look like in practice?

In practice, the innovation takes place through hands-on STEM sessions where girls work on real projects using simple technologies and materials. Students collaborate in small groups to design, build, test, and improve their ideas, guided by mentorship rather than direct instruction. Learning happens through experimentation, discussion, and reflection, allowing students to develop skills, confidence, and ownership of their learning.

How has it been spreading?

The innovation has been spreading organically through direct implementation with students, word of mouth, and participation in exhibitions and competitions. As students share their experiences and outcomes, interest in the approach has grown within the local educational community. The initiative continues to expand gradually through trust, mentorship, and demonstrated impact rather than formal scaling strategies.

How have you modified or added to your innovation?

Over time, the innovation has been refined based on students’ needs and learning experiences. Projects were adapted to become more flexible and inclusive, allowing students with different skill levels to participate confidently. Mentorship approaches were also adjusted to emphasize reflection, collaboration, and student ownership of learning.

If I want to try it, what should I do?

To try this innovation, start by creating a small, supportive learning environment focused on hands-on STEM projects. Choose simple tools and real-world problems, encourage experimentation, and allow students to learn through collaboration and reflection. The key is to prioritize inclusion, mentorship, and confidence-building rather than technical perfection.

Implementation steps

student interests and challenges
Students explore real-life challenges connected to their interests and community, forming the foundation for their STEM projects.
Design project-based learning tasks
Learners work in teams to design STEM projects using inquiry, creativity, and problem-solving skills guided by the teacher.
technology and Al tools
Students integrate digital tools, simple programming, or Al-supported resources to develop and enhance their solutions.
Reflect, present, and improve
Students present their projects, reflect on learning outcomes, and refine their ideas based on feedback.