Young Professionals : the Future Lies in STEM

The concept of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) mushroomed when academics and authorities alike found an alarming low rate student application in these areas of study at both secondary and university levels. For a couple of decades now, these fields are being vigorously encouraged so as to address a gap in education with the intent of producing professionals who will later turn into major  stakeholders in enriching the economy. 
 

Ismael Essackjee : “STEM helps us to solve everyday problems” 

We are exposed to and deal with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) more than we may think of, states Ismael Essackjee.  “Whether it is choosing low calorie foods when wishing to lose a few kilograms or selecting our next smart phone, we are using STEM to help us solve a couple of problems.”  

According to him, many students drop STEM subjects mainly because of the way they are taught. “Educators may view and be inspired from YouTube videos of Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Professor Walter Lewin, who reveals physics laws in highly demonstrative ways. Studying these subjects will develop skills like critical thinking, problem solving and decision making for the next generation and will lead to innovations. Here again, innovation is not about creating new things but encompasses applying new techniques and novel ideas to do things differently, so as to be more productive or efficient.” 

He argues that we can tap intensely into resources from Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre and encourage institutions like the Institution of Engineering & Technology (IET) which are promoting STEM. For instance, this Institution runs the challenge program FIRST® LEGO® League which ignites enthusiasm for discovery, science and technology in young people and which is an overwhelming success in several countries.” 

Meenakshi Lobine : “We need a multi-faceted approach” 

Both our nation and the world are facing increasingly complex and challenging problems that require a skilled STEM workforce, says Meenakshi. “Elements of STEM are integral parts of our economy, from healthcare and infrastructure needs to energy and environment. However, if we want to deal with the upcoming challenges effectively or to progress as a country, it is of paramount importance to shape the new generation as emerging STEM skilled people.” 

She believes that it is high time to enforce STEM in our education system. “We need a multi-faceted approach to encourage students to embrace STEM program from lower levels of the education system. The government should strengthen the role of educational actors and train them to eliminate the myths and fear of scientific subjects. Role models can be effective for motivating students and engendering initial interest in STEM careers. Similarly, more mentoring programs should be provided to contribute to student motivation in STEM majors.” 

Hitasha Kisoon : “We should enhance training opportunities” 

Hitasha Kisson argues that there is the extreme need to enforce science, technology, engineering, mathematics, in addition to relevant areas such as invention and entrepreneurship in our education system.  “Mauritian students, this way, will be less inclined to leave the country, study and settle abroad.  

Thus, being educated in these fields will be conducive to the economic growth of the country.  With an eye to encourage these courses, we need to enhance training opportunities for teachers as well.”
She underlines that we need to strengthen STEM programs at all levels, mostly at tertiary levels.  

“We highly need to encourage and support students to work in these sectors and even enable scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs to bring their talents to academic sectors.  Besides, the university curricula need to include entrepreneurship studies to kill the chasm between universities and entrepreneurship.  An efficient education system will create thousands of highly skilled citizens, high-wage jobs and will enhance the standard of living.” 

Anousha Sidarshinee Jeetun : “New learning models should be promoted” 

Anousha believes that it is high time to bring innovations in the curriculum with the enforcement of modern subjects and techniques. “There is a need for rethinking our education system and revitalizing it, so that it prepares the young for the future with the skills that are needed for today and for tomorrow. New learning models should be promoted, like e-books, clever touch, courseware, and interactive whiteboards.” 

The implementation of such subjects should be rendered mandatory if we want to see changes in the right direction, says Anousha. “More extra- curricular activities should be oriented towards science, invention, engineering and entrepreneurship. This will help to familiarize students with the subjects which may later lead to specialization in these domains.

There should be more sensitizing campaigns on entrepreneurship in schools. Workshops would encourage young people to think about a career in STEM and entrepreneurship. It can encourage a more diverse population of students to embrace these subjects.”