STEM Education in India – Creating Skilled Workforce

STEM, a concept brought in by the US, is a widely popular practice in the field of education. The term was introduced in the traditional practices of education with a reason and aim. The US had realized its potential long ago. Jobs in the sector of STEM is increasing by more than 17% every year and hence the demand for skilled professionals will only increase with time.

Among other developing countries, India has also realized the potential of STEM (an acronym for – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). However, the current education system in India is lagging considerably when it comes to adopting the best practices being followed in the global arena. Even in today’s competitive world, the school education system promotes learning through books and marks secured during annual examination remain the criteria for assessing knowledge.

Technological advancements across the world do not require the highest scorers, but the most skilled. Therefore, it is crucial that students are prepared for the world that is changing rapidly, and they are ready for jobs that are not even titled yet. The learning should be a lifetime of learning to develop new set of skills which can contribute to the advanced technological developments.

Fortunately, educators in India have realized the true potential and necessity of STEM Education in creating a skilled workforce. STEM labs are being established across schools to encourage students with an early exposure to project based learning in a scientific and fun environment. When students develop a liking for STEM field, they become ready to follow the path to innovation. In addition, they develop better decision making to choose a right field to pursue a career in. Through hands-on learning, STEM subjects help to create great innovators, critical thinkers, engineers and scientists of unmatched potential that our country needs. This is crucial for our society as well as the country’s future prosperity.

An insight into the current trends of education worldwide asserts that STEM remains at the forefront of education system. However, STEM Education in India till has many challenges to overcome. Preparing the innovators of next generation requires highly skilled and knowledgeable educators who can inspire and motivate students. That being said, there’s an extreme lack of science teachers. This gap can be bridged through teacher training programs and quality education resources. Besides, there should be well-equipped learning centres for students to get indulged in critical thinking and innovation.

Monil Girdhar is associated with Stembridgelabs as Education Mentor from last 5 years. He has organized various program under project based learning to promote Stem education in India.