One of the growing challenges in many under-resourced communities is that many children do not develop a strong reading culture. Limited access to books, low motivation to read, and learning environments that often feel too theoretical make it difficult for many young learners to build a lasting interest in reading and education. As a result, many children struggle with vocabulary, comprehension, critical thinking, and confidence in learning STEM-related subjects.
To help address this challenge, Sustainable Actions Afrika is implementing the Scrabble Scholars: Igniting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Reading Passion project — an innovative initiative that combines reading, discussion, and Scrabble to make learning fun, interactive, and rewarding.
The project aims to engage at least 300 under-resourced learners aged 7–17 in a dynamic fusion of STEM education and Scrabble-based learning. Through the combination of STEM-themed reading circles with exciting Scrabble sessions and competitions, learners are motivated to read books, discover new words, and apply what they have learned through gameplay.
Turning Reading Into an Exciting Experience
Many children are often more excited about games than books. This project transforms that challenge into an opportunity by using Scrabble as a motivation for reading and learning.
Learners read STEM-related books in groups, discover new scientific and technical words, discuss their meanings together, and later use these words during Scrabble games and competitions. The excitement of earning points through STEM vocabulary encourages learners to read more actively and pay attention to new concepts and words.
This approach makes reading more engaging while helping learners improve vocabulary, spelling, communication, creativity, and critical thinking skills especially in STEM courses and careers.
How the Project Works
Training of Trainers
Teachers, facilitators, and coaches are trained on how to play Scrabble and how to integrate STEM literacy into Scrabble learning activities. Learners are also introduced to the rules of the game, scoring systems, and word-building strategies.
STEM-Themed Reading Circles
Reading circles are formed, and STEM books are distributed to learner groups to read over a set period of time. These reading circles encourage teamwork, curiosity, and peer learning while helping learners gain access to books they may not otherwise have.
Discussion and Vocabulary Sessions
Discussion sessions are organised where learners share the new words and concepts they discovered during reading. A collective list of new STEM-related words is then created, and learners are encouraged to continue learning and practicing the vocabulary together.
Regular Scrabble Sessions
Regular Scrabble play sessions are organised at the Hub and in partner schools, creating consistent opportunities for learners to practice spelling, strategic thinking, and vocabulary development.
Scrabble Competitions with STEM Bonus Points
Scrabble competitions are organised where players receive an additional five (05) bonus points when they successfully play STEM-related words and explain their meanings correctly. This creates a strong motivation for learners to read more books, understand new vocabulary, and confidently use scientific terms.
Building a Reading Culture Through Play
The project is not only improving STEM literacy but also helping to build a stronger reading culture among children and young people. By connecting books with fun and interactive games, learners begin to see reading as exciting rather than difficult or boring.
In communities where access to books and educational resources remains limited, this initiative creates meaningful opportunities for learners to discover the joy of reading, develop confidence, and strengthen essential 21st-century skills.
Looking Ahead
As implementation continues, Scrabble Scholars remains committed to creating safe, inclusive, and engaging learning spaces where children can learn, play, and grow together. Through books, discussions, and Scrabble, the project is helping young learners unlock curiosity, creativity, and a passion for STEM education — one word at a time.
Call to Action:
very child deserves access to books, engaging learning opportunities, and the chance to discover their potential. Through Scrabble Scholars, children are not only learning new words — they are building confidence, improving critical thinking skills, and developing a lasting passion for STEM education and reading.
We welcome individuals, organisations, schools, libraries, companies, and partners to support or sponsor the expansion of the Scrabble Scholars project to more schools and communities across Cameroon.
Your support can help provide:
- STEM books and reading materials
- Scrabble boards and educational resources
- Training for teachers and community coaches
- Reading circle activities and competitions
- Access to fun and inclusive STEM learning opportunities for under-resourced learners
Together, we can help create a generation of curious readers, problem-solvers, and future innovators.
If you would like to partner with us, sponsor a school, donate books or Scrabble materials, or support the implementation of future Scrabble Scholars activities, we would be excited to connect with you.
Join us in turning reading into an exciting pathway for STEM learning and opportunity across Cameroon.
