Late last year, a program to improve the equity of gender and diversity in Australian research institutions was accredited by Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE). The accreditation recognised increased career opportunities, better working practices, career progression and an increased proportion of women in STEM, or the study of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics related subjects.
STEM in Australia
In Australia, STEM has a higher percentage of female participation as compared to anywhere else in the world. SAGE director, Dr Wafa El-Adhami, credits higher education and research sectors in STEM industries for stepping up to address gender inequity and diversity since SAGE began with its dream to build a sustainable and adaptable Athena SWAN model.
The Athena SWAN Bronze Awards
The awards recognize institutions that improve and advance the careers of women, trans and gender individuals in STEM subjects, even including subjects in Medicine. To achieve such an award, the institute must demonstrate a foundation that has been proven to better gender equity in these industries. They also have to present a four-year action plan to address the current gender inequity in these industries. They are marked against five key themes, namely, leadership and commitment, honesty and self-reflection, communication and engagement, data analysis and discussion and SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound) actions.
STEMmates’ role in promoting STEM
At STEMmates, we hope to be grooming and preparing our younger generation by helping them learn and gather the appropriate knowledge that they will need for their future.
STEM industries are gaining popularity – and children today will need to be ready for a world that’s built around the critical thinking and analytical skills STEM education promotes. Our specially designed classes for children of all genders, will teach them both the technical and soft skills needed for the jobs and economy of the future.
At an early age, we introduce children to complex theories and concepts such as Mechanics, Aerodynamics and Robotics, using hands-on and activity based learning in order to keep them interested and excited about STEM subjects.
Our rationale is: the earlier a child gets interested in STEM, the more likely they are to continue to want to pursue an education and eventually a career in these highly marketable fields.
To find out more about our programs and to get your child involved, simply visit our Facebook and website to get in touch with us.
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