THE NEED
A robust STEM education creates critical thinkers, problem solvers and innovators. The National Science Foundation predicts that 80% of the jobs created in the next decade will require some form of Maths and Science skills. However, rote learning methods adopted in low income schools limit students from developing a keen interest in STEM subjects and considering them as careers. While assessing the issue, the biggest challenges we saw were a lack of infrastructure, poor foundational skills, uninspiring content and teaching methodologies.
SOLUTION
HeadStart STEM adopts a comprehensive approach to promote STEM education, particularly amongst girls. We engage with government run and low income schools in urban and rural communities, which are under-resourced and have poor learning outcomes.
The key objectives of the programme are:
- Equipping schools with necessary infrastructure, training and resources for STEM education
- Encouraging scientific thought and learning amongst children
- Creating an enabling environment for STEM education, particularly for girls in schools and communities
