UEW Launches Community STEM Clubs Project to Inspire Future Innovators
The University of Education, Winneba (UEW) has launched the Community STEM Clubs Project, an innovative initiative to inspire future innovators and promote Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education in local schools and communities.
The initiative, led by the Centre for School and Community Science and Technology Studies (SACOST) under the Institute for Educational Research and Innovation Studies (IERIS) of the UEW, seeks to establish vibrant STEM clubs within local schools and communities. These clubs will offer a platform for students to engage in hands-on activities related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The Community STEM Clubs Project will also provide essential training and resources for teachers and club facilitators, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to engage students in STEM learning effectively. The training will focus on best practices in STEM education and project-based learning.
Beyond the school setting, the Community STEM Clubs Project is committed to forging strong partnerships with local industries, organisations, and stakeholders to create pathways for students to explore STEM-related careers. This collaborative approach will provide students mentorship, internship, and job opportunities, preparing them for the workforce and inspiring them to become the next generation of innovators and leaders in STEM fields.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Stephen Jobson Mitchual, Vice-Chancellor of UEW, underscored the importance of applied learning and problem-solving in STEM education. Using an anecdote to illustrate this point, he shared his experience in the development of a fufu-pounding machine, an innovation that demonstrates how scientific knowledge can be used to address everyday challenges.
"We possess the ability to identify challenges within our communities, and we must develop effective solutions. This principle fundamentally defines genuine STEM education. A carpenter with a STEM background should not merely fulfill the role of an ordinary carpenter; rather, he should infuse innovation into his craft. This approach is what distinguishes and enhances the overall impact of his work," he stated.
Prof. Mitchual highlighted that one of the primary reasons developed nations continue to thrive is their commitment to ongoing innovation and development. "The Western world maintains its leading position due to its continuous pursuit of innovation. These nations do not remain static; rather, every industry is progressing as a result of their dedication to research and development," he articulated.
Welcoming stakeholders to the official launch, Prof. Hope Pius Nudzor, Director of IERIS, highlighted the urgent need to foster curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking skills among young people, preparing them for the demands of an increasingly complex and technology-driven world.
Prof. Nudzor encouraged students and community members to take full advantage of the opportunities presented by the project. He urged them to actively engage with the STEM clubs, participate in hands-on activities, and explore the wonders of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. “I look forward to seeing the impact of this project on our communities and the future generation of STEM leaders,” he stated.
Speaking at the official launch, Prof. Enoch F. Sam, Head of SACOST, emphasised the inspiration behind the Community STEM Clubs, stressing that Ghana must adapt to the ever-evolving technological landscape. He noted that current statistics indicate a significant gap in STEM education participation, which the initiative aims to bridge.
Prof. Sam cited a 2020-2021 study by the National Council for Teacher Education, which revealed that out of over 500,000 students admitted to teacher education institutions, only 37.1% pursued STEM-related courses—far below the Ministry of Education's 60% target. “This statistic is alarming. The solution is to empower young minds, to stimulate their curiosity from an early age, and to nurture their passion for STEM,” he asserted.
The Community STEM Clubs Project is a significant milestone in UEW's efforts to promote STEM education and community engagement. As the project rolls out, it is expected to impact the lives of students, teachers, and communities, inspiring a new generation of innovators and leaders in STEM fields. The Community STEM Clubs Project is open to all students, teachers, and communities in the Winneba municipality and surrounding areas.
