Canberra backs STEM education

Young Australians will have the chance to get involved in practical projects that open up the world of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) with $2 million available from the federal government.

Industry minister Karen Andrews has announced the opening of applications for Maker Projects: Community STEM Engagement Grants.

Maker Projects grants support STEM-related organisations and businesses to partner with other businesses, experts, schools and community organisations to deliver STEM initiatives.

Competitive grants from $20,000 up to $100,000 for up to two years are on offer.

Andrews said: “It is so important to foster creativity and hands-on learning in our young people and get them interested in the wonders of STEM from an early age.”

Despite programmes of this type, STEM learning among school age people has been falling in recent years, with the latest figures showing a year on year participation fall of 4.7 per cent.

Picture: Karen Andrews

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