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GHD Foundation funds access and equity scholarships for future STEM professionals
Come January, up to 630 year 12 students will take part in a 12-day science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) program with the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) across Australia. GHD Foundation has partnered with NYSF to contribute toward the upcoming program by providing access and equity scholarships to future engineers and scientists!
State of Australia’s Skills 2021: Now and Into the Future reports that Australia is facing a STEM skills shortage, with STEM occupations projected to grow by 12.9 percent without the same level of growth in the number of young people entering STEM studies. This speaks to the importance of supporting engagement programs.
The program instils participants with confidence and invaluable knowledge to explore real-life career pathways in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. It combines live digital events, lectures, and activities, with state-based, in-person STEM visit hubs in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, Newcastle, Adelaide and Perth. The NYSF provides opportunities for young Australians to brainstorm solutions to the world's toughest challenges, forging networks of like-minded peers to debate and develop pitches and proposals and put into practice their learnings in critical thinking, policy, business and communication.
Following the program, NYSF alumni stay connected with ongoing activities, professional development, and networking opportunities which help provide lasting impact. Program data shows that 90 percent of students who take part in the two-week program go on to study STEM subjects after high school.
“This partnership is a great fit with GHD Foundation’s commitment to break down barriers to enter STEAM careers. We also share a strong focus on providing better access to underrepresented populations in STEAM. Nearly two-thirds of NYSF participants are women and more than a third are from remote or regional areas. NYSF is also working to boost applications from Indigenous students by working directly with schools to enable this,” says Jo Metcalfe, GHD Foundation Managing Director.
“We’re thrilled to have GHD Foundation as a new partner, as both organisations are driven to expand STEAM education and career pathways. We hope this is a long partnership beneficial to both organisations. GHD Foundation’s investment reflects their commitment to the valuable role of outreach and extension programs to encourage young Australians to continue studies in the areas of science, technology, engineering and maths,” NYSF CEO, Dr Melanie Bagg shares.
GHD will be exploring opportunities for involvement of NYSF content delivery through the GITC program, seeded from this year’s GHD Foundation Grant.