Posted on: Friday 17 July 2026
More than 100 girls have used science and technology to tackle issues affecting their schools or local community, such as parking outside schools and staying hydrated in hot weather.
The Year 6 and 7 pupils were part of a Girls in Tech programme aimed at inspiring the next generation of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics careers.
During the four-month programme, the girls visited local science and technology businesses, including Ogi, Sero, and Transport for Wales, and met women working in the sector.
They also took part in workshops designed to develop their digital, problem-solving and teamwork skills, and gained first-hand insight into how innovation is used to solve real-world challenges.
This week, they presented their ideas to teachers and peers at a celebration event held at Abersychan School.
Standout projects included an AI-powered drinks bottle, a robot designed to improve parking safety outside schools and the crowd-pleasing "Disco Toilet".
Faye, from Garnteg Primary School, said: "I really enjoyed going on the employer visit to Ogi and learning more about the internet.“
Isabela from Blaenavon VC Primary, said: "My favourite part was attending the university and listening to the different women and their journeys of how they got into tech."
Pupils from Abersychan School, Blaenavon Heritage VC School, Garnteg Primary School and Cwmffrwdoer Primary School took part in the programme, which was developed by Her Place Wales - a company working to inspire girls and women to consider careers in tech industries.
The programme was funded by Torfaen Council's Aspirations Team and the University of South Wales and supported by the Wales Women in STEM Network.
The pupils received certificate and there were commendations including the Judges' Award, Safety Award, Environmental Award and People's Choice Award.
Councillor Richard Clark, Torfaen Council's Executive Member for Children, Families and Education, said: "It's fantastic to see so many girls completing this programme and showcasing creative ideas that use technology to solve everyday challenges.
"Their enthusiasm, creativity and confidence have been inspiring, and we hope the experience encourages them to continue exploring the wide range of opportunities available in STEAM careers."
The project in Torfaen was funded by Torfaen Council's Aspirations Team and the University of South Wales.