To nurture tomorrow’s potential scientists, Sawstem orchestrated an engaging STEM workshop at Mophane Primary School on November 21 and 22, 2023. The workshop witnessed the active participation of 25 eager students who embarked on a journey of scientific exploration guided by Sci. Monkgomotsi and Onky, spearheading the initiative, collaborating with passionate schoolteachers and other Sawstem mentors to create an interactive learning experience. The atmosphere was electric with curiosity as the young minds delved into various scientific experiments, hands-on activities, and thought-provoking discussions.
The workshop has not only aimed to enhance the students’ theoretical knowledge but also emphasized the practical application of scientific principles. From captivating chemistry experiments to thrilling lab demonstrations, the young participants were exposed to a spectrum of STEM fields. The collaboration between Sawstem and Mophane Primary School showcased the power of community-driven education initiatives. With infectious enthusiasm, the mentors fostered a sense of wonder and curiosity, encouraging the students to question, explore, and discover. Beyond the scientific experiments, the workshop provided a platform for mentorship and skill development. Students had the opportunity to interact with experienced professionals, gaining insights into potential STEM career paths. This holistic approach aimed to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem solvers.
Workshop Participation Analysis:
With a notable gender distribution – 74% of female and 26% of male students have shown an admirable interest in STEM education. At the end of the workshop, students were asked to participate in an assessment by indicating their future career preferences. They were presented with four predefined career paths in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. They were also given the option to specify any other career of interest. The diverse responses shed light on their sources of inspiration and the reasons behind their excitement for STEM-related subjects.
The following subsequent statistics provide insights into the varied aspirations expressed by the students. In terms of career aspirations, a nuanced breakdown reveals interesting insights. While 29% expressed interest in pursuing science careers, 6% leaned towards technology, 3% engineering, and 16% mathematics. Surprisingly, a significant 45% opted for other career paths, highlighting diverse interests among the participants.
Delving deeper into the “other” career category, 33% of students displayed clarity in their chosen paths, with aspirations to become doctors. This finding highlights a potential interest in medical sciences and underscores the importance of incorporating broader STEM elements beyond conventional fields. The workshop’s impact is further validated by the diverse comments surrounding career choices. These insights have not only reflected the participants’ interest but also provided valuable feedback for future STEM initiatives. The identified percentages should guide future planning, ensuring a more tailored approach to cater to the specific interests of the students. The STEM workshop at Mophane Primary School has engaged a diverse group of students, encouraging them to explore and contemplate various career paths within the STEM spectrum.
This analysis serves as a foundation for continuous improvement and customization of future programs to better align with the student’s aspirations. The success of the Sawstem workshop at Mophane Primary School is a confirmation of the transformative impact of hands-on, experiential learning. By igniting the spark of scientific curiosity in these young minds, Sawstem continues to contribute to the broader mission of fostering a passion for STEM education and shaping the future of science and technology.