The world’s fastest-growing entertainment platform, TikTok, has launched the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) feed in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).
In the same way that TikTok curates a following and friends feed, it now also offers content specifically covering STEM topics. The feed is currently live and is available over 20 countries across SSA. Users can now click on the STEM feed alongside the For You feed to open up a world of knowledge from respected experts in their fields. The feed features content in the English language with auto-translated subtitles, verified by two independent fact-checking organisations, CSN and Poynter .
A hub for curious and knowledge-seekers
TikTok is enjoyed by more than a billion users worldwide, many of whom are curious people looking to increase their knowledge of everything from social issues to art and even education.
Evidence of this is seen in TikTok’s #BookTok with 47 million video creations, created by users who have formed a community of avid readers looking for their next read. #LearnOnTikTok appeals to the intellectual user, a beehive of interesting facts, tips on optimising TikTok, and niche subjects.
“TikTok is home to more than entertainment. It’s a platform where users flock to make discoveries; whether it’s uncovering a new restaurant, listening to a new artist for the first time or learning a new language. #STEMTokexpands the world of discovery for our users whilst educating them with enriching content,” – Boniswa Sidwaba, Head of Content Operations Sub-Saharan Africa, TikTok.
For the youth
With 25% of TikTok users globally being teenagers, the platform has the potential to shape and inspire an entire generation. Through its STEM feed, teen users can enhance their knowledge on topics such as the nature of bacteria, planetary science, astrophysics, the inner workings of technology, and robotics.
With the STEM feed, parents and guardians can rest assured that the platform offers more than dance trends and new songs. On TikTok, they can be every part of a community of shared interests.
Creators to watch
Aisha Bande (@chemistrywithaishabande) is a Nigerian educator who is passionate about simplifying complex scientific concepts for students and enthusiasts. Her content makes science more accessible and enjoyable.
South African’s Mpho T Makhema (@mphokatmakhema) teaches math to students in grades R-12. She provides easy-to-follow lessons to help students grasp tricky concepts and also shares content in the classroom, where she works with students to solve equations and find answers to questions.
Eric Mwaura (@profmwaura01) from Kenya, creates interactive content for maths and science enthusiasts. He takes pride in exploring STEM topics, delving into phenomena such as the gravity hill, why people in Antarctica don’t feel upside down, why babies don’t have an innate sense of time, and whether the Earth moves according to the Bible and science.
UcheOflagos (@UcheOflagos)is a tech enthusiast from Nigeria who is committed to empowering the next generation of African programmers. Through ucheoflagos.ng, he shares coding tutorials, app development insights, and career guidance for aspiring software engineers.
Samkelo Mhlophe, (@thishawakutiktok) is a South African Life Science teacher bringing STEM to life with creative, fun and engaging lessons. Known for his viral classroom songs, he turns complex topics like chromosomes and DNA into catchy tunes that make learning fun and memorable.
A Mr. Fix of sorts, Duncanzz (@duncanzz) from Kenya is the go-to person for all things tech-related. He helps his followers learn how to get things done using technology, from reducing mobile data usage on certain phones to making devices scroll automatically.
Oge Hezeonu (@ogehezeonu) is a digital innovator and tech enthusiast from Nigeria who is passionate about exploring the latest trends in technology, from AI advancements to cybersecurity and consumer gadgets.
Homework Help 365 Days (@homework_help365_days) is the learner’s go-to TikTok page for mastering STEM subjects. From Maths to Life Sciences and more, this creator from South Africa simplifies tough concepts with engaging, visual lessons and past paper breakdowns.
Wambui, known as (@hikingtechie) from Kenya, uses hiking sessions to creatively review tech gadgets. She creates entertaining and educational videos that recommend the best and most affordable laptops for university and college students, as well as fun facts about technology.
First Class Lower (@first_class_lower) is a science communicator from Nigeria who is committed to making STEM subjects engaging and relatable. They break down complex scientific topics into simple, practical explanations, fostering curiosity and a deeper understanding of science in everyday life.
Jessy Lesley from Kenya (@jessylesley) creates content focusing on unboxing and reviewing gadgets, tutorials, and effective software tips. He shares advice on home setups and where to find tech products.
TikTok’s over billion-strong community shows the power of connection across borders and affirms that all users can find their people.
“The STEM community is growing and with it a variety of interesting content creators passionate about sharing their knowledge, insights, and experiences,” concludes Sidwaba.