STEM
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) is important because it encompasses every part of our life. The concept of science and mathematics is all around us. Technology and engineering nowadays are crucial and necessary in our daily life. Eventually, as life becomes more closely related to STEM, we must equip ourselves with knowledge and skills in this field, especially the young generations. Despite its importance, the interest of students in schools towards STEM is lessening. Student's enrolment in the science stream is in decline. The estimated percentage of declination is about 3% every year. This scenario is worsening as there are no takers for some science courses at the tertiary level.
Realizing this situation, the Ministry of Education Malaysia has come up with the Malaysia Education Blueprint which is planned for the year 2013 – 2025. The blueprint was developed based on research findings and national dialogues involving all levels of stakeholders such as the public and communities, parents, teachers, school leaders, education leaders at the districts and states level, other ministries, universities, industries and private sectors.
In 2018, the Knowledge Management Unit, IRC, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) had initiated STEM activities as a platform for a knowledge ecosystem whereby all talent, expertise, and technology are being produced and cultivated in university been shared and transferred for the benefits of the community. STEM programs in school, community and collaboration with NGOs, agencies, private company and government sectors are among the activities conducted by KMU. STEM activities through collaboration have a high impact on the community surroundings and the young generation in schools.
Initiative to Strengthen STEM Education
Below are among the initiatives conducted in STEM programs.
UTP Mentoring Program
UTP STEM Idols
Research Based Learning
STEM Gateway
The initiative's objectives are to:
Stimulate students' interest in STEM through the formal and informal approach to learning.
Sharpen teachers' knowledge and skills in teaching STEM related subjects through continuous professional development programs
Increase awareness and acculturation in STEM among students, teachers and community through STEM programs
