By Jacob Achoi
SERIAN, June 25: Sarawak aims to have 40 per cent of school children studying in the science stream by 2030.
In pointing out this, Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, said the percentage will also include those proficient in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
Speaking to reporters after officiating at the opening of the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) mini theatre presentation at Serian Conference Centre here, Sagah said the target was set by the Sarawak government.
“When we talk about 40 per cent of our local students (which Sarawak targets) studying in the science stream by 2030, it doesn’t mean studying pure science.
“But we want them to have enough scientific knowledge, skills and expertise to produce things for the future (of Sarawak),” Sagah explained.
In his speech, the Tarat assemblyman said his ministry is committed to ensuring that Sarawak’s education system is world class and that includes strenuous efforts to promote STEM among school children.
“Let us reaffirm our commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and excellence in STEM education,” he asserted, adding that the programme today will remain a cornerstone of Sarawak’s STEM agenda and will involve more children across Sarawak.
Earlier, National STEM Association (NSA) Prof Emeritus Dato Dr Noraini Irish said at the moment only 30.1 per cent of Sarawak students are studying in the science stream.
She said NSA will always support Sarawak’s agenda to promote STEM among school children.
“What we see today is our effort to nurture young Sarawakians to become engineers, mathematicians, technologist and architects in developing Sarawak,” she pointed out.
She also lauded the move by the Sarawak government to build Sarawak Science Centre, which will enhance the promotion of STEM. — DayakDaily
