Educationist tasks government on STEM, to guarantee employment, employable youths

An Educationist, Mrs Olajumoke Akere, has tasked the three tiers of governments to adequately fund education through good policies, specifically targeted at promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

She said doing this would not only improve the quality of human resources the nation has but that it will also solve the challenges of unemployment and unemployable graduates in Nigeria.

Akere, who is the Director of Jsay Prevarsity, stated this during the Career Day celebration entitled: ‘‘Empowering Future Innovators: The Vital Role of STEM in Shaping Tomorrow’s Workplace. organised by Jsay Prevarsity in Ibadan.Empowering Future Innovators: The Vital Role of STEM in Shaping Tomorrow’s Workplace’ organised by Jsay Prevarsity in Ibadan, Oyo State.

She said it was imperative of the government and policymakers, to provide the necessary infrastructure, funding and policies to promote STEM education in Nigeria.

According to her, as Nigerians embrace the opportunities of the 21st century, it is clear that science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are not just areas of study but the foundation upon which the future is being built.

Akere said that the nature of work in the next few years would drastically change, and involvement of technology would be at a faster pace than ever before.

She said the future workplace would demand skills that are based on critical thinking, problem-solving and innovation.

“The World Economic Forum predicts that more than 65% of children entering primary school today will end up in jobs that don’t even exist yet. The world is changing, and so must we,” she said.

Akere said that awareness must be created for students to know and take advantage of the broad range of career opportunities in STEM.

She emphasised that STEM wasn’t just about being a doctor or an engineer but there are countless emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, cybersecurity, data science, robotics, and environmental engineering.

Akere called on schools and parents to expose students to opportunities in STEM education early enough for them to develop interest and confidence in pursuing STEM careers.

“Parents, school have a critical role to play in shaping career choices for students to fully understand the evolving job market and the importance of STEM.

“I urge you to take a closer look at the future job market. The traditional career paths we are used to may not be the ones that provide security in the future,” she said.

Akere urged schools not to just equip students with the knowledge but also the hands-on experience they need to succeed in those fields.

She called on students not to be afraid to explore and experiment with technology, science, and mathematics. “Learn about the world of coding, robotics, environmental science, build your knowledge and as well learn how to collaborate, communicate, and solve real-world problems.

“These are the skills that will make you indispensable in the workplace of tomorrow,” she said.

She said Jsay Prevarsity, has the vision to equip students for success in tertiary education and to ensure their global relevance, and it remained dedicated to helping students realize their full potential in the STEM field.