This development marks the first instance of a UNESCO Category 1 Institute for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics being located in China.
This development marks the first instance of a UNESCO Category 1 Institute for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics being located in China.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) approved a resolution establishing the International Institute for STEM (IISTEM) Education in Shanghai. This will be the first time a UNESCO Category 1 STEM institute in China.
UNESCO approved the resolution during its General Conference’s 42nd session in Paris where representatives lauded China’s efforts in establishing the STEM institute in Shanghai as a notable advancement in fulfilling the “Education 2030 Agenda.”
Minister of Education Huai Jinpeng, who was also head of the Chinese delegation, expressed China’s commitment to fully cooperate with the secretariat in implementing the resolution to establish the UNESCO IISTEM in Shanghai.
He noted the institute’s role in bringing together global expertise and resources to advance STEM education and contribute to achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
The UNESCO IISTEM in Shanghai becomes the 10th Category 1 Institute established by UNESCO globally, marking the first of its kind established outside of Europe and the Americas.
The IISTEM in Shanghai aims to advance inclusive, equitable, relevant, and high-quality STEM education for all age groups, from early years to adults. It will also function as an information exchange center, a network hub, a resource base, and a focal point for capacity-building in STEM education.
Recently, UNESCO and Prada have united to propel the Keeping Girls in the Picture campaign, an initiative aimed at fostering the education of girls in the ICT and STEM fields in Kenya.
From August 14 to 16, 2023, over 200 girls from Kajiado and Kwale Counties participated in ICT-STEM bootcamps at Moi Isinya Girls High School and Waa Girls Secondary School.
The participants delved deep into the world of artificial intelligence, coding, robotics, 3D printing, and other pivotal digital skills of the modern age. Notably, the majority of these girls were venturing into the realm of coding and engineering for the first time.
The bootcamps had three primary objectives: to familiarize learners with core concepts in AI, coding, and robotics; to amplify their exposure to potential STEM careers via experiential learning and mentorship; and to advocate for gender responsiveness and increased self-confidence in STEM domains.
UNESCO is actively addressing the gender gap in STEM careers, which are seen as key to innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability. Research, policy work, and training initiatives are underway to empower women through education. The urgency of closing this disparity is heightened by its potential impact on the future.
