For the first time ever, in the history of the world, anyone with access to an internet connection, self confidence, the ability to think critically and to innovate, has the power to create technology solutions to problems which have been plaguing the world since time immemorial. Solving global problems means immense potential wealth, and global recognition for those who are successful. Consequently, many developing nations are preparing their youth today. Those who do not, will be left behind, flailing in a failing economy, hanging on to old dead ideas and subjecting their citizens to endless poverty and suffering.
STEM education creates critical thinkers, increases science literacy, and enables the next generation of innovators. Innovation leads to new products and processes that sustain economies. This innovation and science literacy depends on a solid knowledge base in the STEM areas. It is clear that most jobs of the future will require a basic understanding of math and science. Despite these compelling facts, mathematics and science scores on average among Guyanese students are lagging behind the other Caribbean countries.
STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. STEM is important because it pervades every part of our lives. Science is everywhere in the world around us. Technology is continuously expanding into every aspect of our lives. Engineering is the basic designs of roads and bridges, but also tackles the challenges of changing global weather and environmentally-friendly changes to our home. Mathematics is in every occupation, every activity we do in our lives. By exposing students to STEM and giving them opportunities to explore STEM-related concepts, they will develop a passion for it and hopefully pursue a career in a STEM field.
Guyana Cannot Develop Efficiently Without A Large Cadre Of STEM Specialists
Whether Guyana is able to fulfil her promise to her citizens will depend on whether the resources necessary for development are readily available in the country. Guyana is awash in natural resources, but the resources necessary to ensure the fair and equitable participation of citizens in the development of Guyana include a confident population, creative and innovative young people, leaders with vision who eschew silly gender, race or other bias, a diverse, trained and tolerant workforce and a national commitment to excellence.
STEM education when made fun, will attract more young people into the careers Guyana so desperately needs. Whether mining, agriculture, education, oil and gas, manufacturing or even entertainment; all these industries will require access to innovative minds, who have more than a passing interest in technology. Absent a concerted investment in technology education today, the nation will have to continue to import talent from foreign entities who have no emotional or lasting commitment to the nation. We simply cannot continue to import talent that can be developed locally. Until our governments catch up with this notion, it will be left to parents to ensure that their children are properly prepared. Those who prepare today will prosper most in the future.