Yinka Olatunbosun
A technologically driven social enterprise, STEM METS, is on an advocacy course to improve the knowledge economy in Nigeria with the introduction of alternative learning methods in schools. STEM, which derives its name from Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, was established in 2014 with over 4,000 students reached in 12 schools. It is fast becoming a household name in many schools where the wholistic development of a child is prioritised.
Starting with Bricks4kidz programme, pupils were taught how to use the LEGO bricks to develop problem solving skills and creativity. This had been followed by a series of after school lessons, workshops and field trips.
Recently, the organisation has partnered with Airbus Foundation, a subsidiary of Airbus, to administer its robotics and aviation program to youths between 11 and 16 years through the “AIRBUS The Little Engineer Workshop.â€
During a recent press briefing in Lagos, the Founder of STEM METS, Jadesola Adedeji guided a handful of journalists through the use of LEGO bricks. Tasked in pairs, the journalists were informed of the lasting benefits of alternative learning.
From her personal observation, many Nigerian youths are unemployable due to several reasons. One of them is the lack of relevant skill-set to deliver quality service in 21st century work climate. Technology has changed the dynamics for many professionals and it is crucial for the younger generation to be prepared for this trend while they are in school.
“The international community is developing curriculum and their educational system to adapt to technological advancement. Our curriculum is still very old. There is a gap between what our graduate skills are and what the employers want. The fourth industrial revolution is influencing the way our work is being done,’’ Adedeji explained.
She also observed that a large percentage of the Nigerian workforce are still secondary school certificate holders, many of whom are trapped in poverty cycle. To break this cycle, a complete overhaul of the educational system in Nigeria.
In many of the public schools reached by Adedeji and her team, it was observed that most of the teachers need to be trained or retrained on how to equip pupils with 21st century skill sets such as creative thinking, technological literacy as well as leadership skills.
Many parents in our contemporary society find it worrisome that most children have substituted real life friendships with virtual connections. They are also more predisposed to using the internet for leisure activities than pedagogical purposes. With this STEM initiative, more children can be engaged during vacations with skill acquisitions that are technologically driven such as computer programming and robotics. STEM alternative learning is created for both the private and public institutions. It is also not limited to school-age children.
The organisation’s partnership with Airbus which started in September 2017 will be launched next month.
