President Dr. Arif Alvi will launch the game-changer STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Program today (6 October) for the students at higher secondary school.
According to a report by Radio Pakistan, the Ministry of Science and Technology will launch the initiative, which would train students in STEM topics, in 50 government-run higher secondary schools across the country.
Furthermore, it was added that the students of grades 9 to 12 will be selected and enrolled in the pilot program. The selection will be based on the student’s ability and talent.
Minister for Science and Technology Shibli Faraz said STEM courses had taken on “particular relevance” in the globe in a video message released ahead of the program’s inauguration.
Faraz revealed that the program was scheduled for 2020 and that he and his team had worked on it day and night to give it a “realistic shape.”
He stated that the scheme would be implemented in 50 schools at first, which also include special training for the teachers and the construction of special laboratories for students.
Furthermore, he said, “These schools will also be associated with universities. The schools have been selected purely on merit, not political reasons. The principals will be our guests in today’s event.”
He went on to say that due to these STEM institutions, a new period of progress will begin, he added. “We have given a new direction to the education system to make our pupils globally competitive.”
The program will be divided into three aspects:
- Labs.
- Teacher training.
- STEM modules.
Fawad Chaudhry, the Minister of Information described the program as a “game-changer.” He stressed the objective that the country will not go towards progression unless or until the government schools are modernized.
He said in a tweet, “I am very happy that this plan is turning into a reality despite delays.”
Following its initial implementation in 450 schools, the minister expressed hope that more schools will adopt the STEM approach. He explained that universities have been told to “adopt” schools and boost science instruction.
Prime Minister Imran Khan approved the STEM project, which was developed in partnership with universities, last year.
Special laboratories for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics would be created in 40 schools in the first phase, according to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
