Govt launches project to transform STEM education in junior high schools

The government has launched a nationwide initiative to enhance science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education across junior high schools (JHS) in the country. 

Building on a successful pilot, the project, namely, Basic Science Technology Engineering and Maths (BSTEM), aims to equip students with practical, hands-on skills that align with the ministry’s vision of advancing STEM competencies countrywide.

The pilot phase of the project initially implemented in 100 junior high schools, supplied schools with specialised kits to support interactive and problem-solving approaches to math and science education.

The kits also included technology components to foster programming and robotics skills, providing students with exposure to high-demand skills in an increasingly digital world.

To ensure effective implementation, the project provided extensive training for regional advisors and JHS teachers.

These advisors, some of whom were involved in the pilot, have already started integrating the kits into their local schools, helping to foster a new generation of STEM leaders across the country.

Speaking at the launch in Accra last Friday, the Minister of Education, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, stressed the importance of introducing STEM skills in lower levels of education. 

Robust STEM foundation

“High school STEM is on track, and we are making significant progress. But the same cannot be said about STEM education at the primary, kindergarten, and junior high school levels. This project fills that gap, ensuring a robust STEM foundation from kindergarten to high school, with a particular focus on JHS,” he said.

He also noted that the approach aimed to create a STEM ecosystem that was built progressively across educational levels.

“This ecosystem cannot be built only at the high school level. We need to establish these skills earlier, in JHS and primary school, to develop a complete and well-rounded STEM pipeline,” Dr Adutwum said. 

Empowerment

The Director of the National STEM Resource Unit, Olivia Serwaa Opare, described the launch of the initiative as the beginning of a movement dedicated to empowering the country’s next generation of innovators.

She said she was both humbled and thrilled to oversee such a transformative project, one that would equip learners with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

“On behalf of the Director of the Ghana Education Service (GES), the entire GES management team, and my staff from the STEM Resource Units, I extend our sincerest gratitude to the Minister of Education. His leadership has inspired a whole nation and today, even the youngest in our homes know the significance of STEM education,” she said.

Mrs Opare also commended the trainer of trainers, stating that their dedication was driving the mission forward.

“You stand here not just as trainers, but as leaders, ready to push STEM education far and wide. I am confident that with your commitment, our teachers and students will be well-prepared for the future.

“Together, we are building a future where every student has the opportunity to innovate, lead, and succeed,” she stated.