Victoria’s secondary students are to be given the chance to train in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in a new specialist centre delivered jointly by the State Government and University of Melbourne.
Announced by the Ministers for Education, James Merlino and for Training and Skills and Higher Education, Gayle Tierney, $1.37 million in funding has been allocated to create the STEM Centre of Excellence, to be hosted by Science Gallery Melbourne in Parkville.
“The centre will include state-of-the-art learning spaces and introduce secondary students to new and emerging industries, and opportunities in the STEM fields via cutting edge machines, industry grade labs and researchers in the field,” Mr Merlino and Ms Tierney said
“Science Gallery Melbourne is part of an internationally renowned network, with proven success at engaging 15 to 25-year-old students in STEM subjects and pathways,” they said
“The Gallery forms part of the University of Melbourne’s new innovation precinct, Melbourne Connect, which is due for completion in 2021.”
The Ministers said the Centre would offer a range of programs focused on creativity, design thinking and STEM excellence, to encourage STEM participation and prepare students for future work.
“Students will benefit from the connection to one of Victoria’s best research institutions and to a global network of universities,” they said.
They said the STEM Centre of Excellence was due for completion in early 2021.
