26 Mar 2024

Prioritising and investing in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education is crucial as it could  make the country competitive at a global scale, create new jobs and economic opportunities.
As such Power Intellect STEM and Robotics Club aimed to fostering creative confidence and a desire to grow in the subjects amongst learners aged between 4 years and 16 years was viewed as a critical component in achieving such.  
Maun Kung Fung Academy public relation officer, Mr Oaitse Tumelo made the remarks during the launch of Power Intellect STEM and Robotics Club in Maun on Saturday.
The club aimed to provide pupils from the grass-root level with hand-on interactive learning experiences that would equip them with critical thinking, problem solving and technological skills crucial for the 21st century.
However, he appreciated the master mind of the club, Ms Julliet Lekgoa saying STEM education could provide numerous benefits both to learners and society as a whole citing that the approach could play a vital role in addressing some of the pressing issues faced today such as climate change, food security and public health.
He assured the club his full support and promised to bring learners from Maun Kung Fung Academy to learn more so that they have greater chance at economic success citing that the approach also would encourage them to pursue their passions and be creative problem solvers.
“STEM education is becoming increasingly important in the modern world as the job market shifts to focus heavily on industries rooted in science, technology, engineering and mathematics hence investing in the approach was paramount,” he added.
Mr Tumelo further noted that STEM approach encouraged collaboration as students worked together to solve problems and complete projects citing that type of learning could also spark new ideas and inspire learners to think outside the box.
The director of Power Intellect STEM and Robotics Club, Ms Lekgoa STEM education was crucial as it gave ea robust foundation for learners and technology enthusiasts to easily interact and enhance overall learning experiences.
She said studies had shown that students avoided venturing into STEM based subjects learning conceived difficulty of these subjects and through the club, they intend to make science fascinating to any learner, guaranteeing excellent results and satisfying careers for learner.
“We intend to work closely with various schools in Maun and surrounding village where we will form school clubs with a view to improve learners’ academic performance. Our initiative aims to bring the best science, technology, engineering and mathematics to an intriguing aspect of everyday life, helping pupils to become problems solvers who aspire to become the next leading engineers and scientists,” she added.
Ms Lekgoa was of the view that success in STEM was rooted in a growth mindset and meeting learners where they are, adding that their approach to STEM learning re-engages learners who do not believe they have what it takes to grasp science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts while challenging those who instinctively gravitate toward STEM learning.
She called on learners to join the club and enjoy the benefits citing that they offer specialised coding sessions, robotics lessons, makerlab access and STEM development sessions among others.
Currently, she said they have 17 private students and called on parents to bring their children to the club to be equipped with valuable competencies that extend beyond the classroom, preparing them for future where technology and innovation are paramount. BOPA