PRIME Minister Boris Johnson has big plans to make the U.K. a leader in technology as he focuses on maximising education in key subjects like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). According to a report by Forbes, the British government has begun by offering more generous student visas to international students. These students are allowed to stay in the country for up to two years after graduation to find work.
In a press release from the U.K. Government, plans were announced for a multi-million-pound government investment package, including £8.9 million to continue funding science education programmes that encourage young people to pursue STEM-related careers. Schools across the U.K. are also investing in science programs to ensure the students of the next generation are educated with the scientific knowledge needed to meet demands in technology – such as renewable energy and green technologies.
Pushing for STEM education initiatives
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Our previous article on TechFest pointed out how the STEM programme here in Aberdeen was designed to help students explore their future careers in technology by allowing them to get a taste of real industry experience. Recently, young students have not only enrolled in more STEM subjects, but have taken the enthusiasm to the next level in the form of competitions.
For example, students aged 16-18 from different countries like India, Iran, USA, and including the U.K., have the opportunity to join a STEM Next essay competition. Here, pupils will perform an in depth research project, interview an industry professional and submit an essay in the subject of their choice. By participating in TechFest, students not only gain exposure to the tech industry, but also make connections with professionals and specialists, which could prove useful when it’s time to search for a career.
Global focus on STEM
Other nations have been similarly supporting STEM-related education initiatives. Some schools have a focus on female empowerment in the field, and their teaching techniques are rooted in this. Bridge International Academies points out that only 33.3% of researchers globally are women. By educating more women and girls in STEM subjects, the gender ratio of researchers and workers in STEM fields may eventually even out, leading to more diverse industries.
Bridge offers accelerated learning to enhance performance levels for girls with opportunities to continue studying at US universities on full scholarships. For example, Bridge Kenya alumna Grace Kerubo was given a scholarship to Amherst College in the US, which paved the way for her dream to work in medicine.
It’s important to recognise the need for female representation in every field, especially STEM-related careers. The demand for technical services is continually rising, and to meet this demand, more female scientists need to be trained. Educating women and girls in STEM subjects is one way to accomplish this.
Across the world in Australia, the economy is also rapidly changing. According to the Department of Education, 75% of all new jobs will require STEM skills in the next 15 years. To meet this rising demand, the Australian workforce will need people that are trained with strong problem-solving skills, logical reasoning, and have knowledge in digital technology. Education is the key and so STEM subjects have been integrated deep into the education system as a primary area of focus from kindergarten to year 10 in the Western Australian Curriculum. By empowering students at a young age with the necessary skills to succeed, they will be able to lead Australia into technological advancement.
Up until recently, STEM subjects in the U.K. have been difficult for young pupils to access, especially among young female students from less fortunate backgrounds. The good news is that the Department for Education has enabled online teaching platforms, like Issac Physics or Impact Map, to support students transitioning from GCSE through sixth form college to university.
Educating students in STEM subjects should be a priority for every major city. Aberdeen is leading the way in this movement as we understand that the technological future of every country is rooted in the intellectual ability of its students, as they will be the future innovators that will lead the country towards technological success in the future.
