Faced with a growing demand for skilled professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), Switzerland has announced a comprehensive initiative aimed at cultivating a robust STEM workforce by 2028. The State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation, under the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research, has tasked the Swiss Academies of Arts and Sciences with spearheading this crucial endeavor.
The program, set to commence in 2025 and run through 2028, will focus on fostering STEM skills among children and young people through engaging, extracurricular, and multidisciplinary projects. Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, the initiative will prioritize gender equality and target children who may lack access to traditional STEM-related activities.
“Our goal is to ignite a passion for STEM in the next generation,” stated a representative from the Swiss State Secretariat. “By providing accessible and stimulating opportunities, we aim to not only address the immediate skills shortage but also lay the foundation for Switzerland’s continued leadership in innovation and technology.”
The programs will emphasize “accessible science,” ensuring that children from all backgrounds have the opportunity to explore and develop their STEM potential. This approach is seen as vital for promoting equal opportunities and driving Switzerland’s digital transition.
The aspects of this new Swiss initiative include:
- Extracurricular STEM Projects: Offering hands-on, engaging activities outside of traditional school settings.
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Integrating various STEM disciplines to provide a holistic understanding.
- Emphasis on Gender Equality: Actively encouraging girls and young women to pursue STEM careers.
- Targeted Outreach: Reaching children who may lack access to STEM resources and support.
- Digital Transition Focus: Connecting STEM education with the skills needed for a digital future.
By investing in early STEM education, Switzerland aims to ensure a sustainable pipeline of talent, bolstering its competitiveness in the global economy and securing its position as a leader in technological advancement. This bold move underscores the nation’s commitment to addressing the evolving demands of the 21st-century workforce.
Press Release: https://digital.swiss/en/action-plan/measures/programme-to-promote-stem-fields-in-switzerland.
