Due to the growing vulnerability of Syrian refugee children and youth in Lebanon, due to the lack of quality and relevant education offered to them, and to the increasing livelihood challenges leading more children to dropout from schools and to become exposed to child labour, exploitation and all kinds of threats including early marriage (for young girls), NGO Sonbola Group for Education & Development (Sonbola) and The Little Engineer Corporation (TLE) decided to put their respective expertise and efforts and develop jointly a program that helps those children and young adults re-connect with Education and acquire relevant knowledge and skills through meaningful and insightful learning experiences. STEM For Refugees aims to bring hope, change and fulfillment to the lives of Syrian refugee and marginalized children and youth, and prove that quality education is possible at time of conflict.

To provide refugees and vulnerable young boys and girls with quality and relevant education. To sensitize young refugees and powerless learners to STEM-related knowledge and skills. To empower and inspire young refugees and vulnerable learners to commit to education and pursue STEM-related vocations or careers. To empower teachers through STEM literacy and teachings and contribute in improving their technical and professional skills.

In June  2016: Sonbola and TLE signed  Exclusive partnership to develop a special tailored Robotics program for Syrian refugee children.

Oct 2016 – Jan 2017: Training of Sonbola teachers, kick-off and implementation of pilot program with 50 children (boys and girls) and registration of STEM for Refugees for copy rights.

Feb 2017: Official launching of STEM For Refugees. STEM education is vital for the post-confilct and reconstruction phase in Syria.