Maths, science and tech conference kicks off
Spotlight is on teacher professional development
The 32nd annual conference of the Southern African Association for Research in Mathematics, Science and Technology Education aims to encourage innovative research, foster interdisciplinary collaborations and propose evidence-based policy recommendations.
Delegates from across borders have been warmly welcomed to Namibia, affectionately known as the Land of the Brave, for the 32nd annual conference of the Southern African Association for Research in Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education (SAARMSTE). The event is set to take place at the International University of Management (IUM).Under the theme 'Rethinking Relevant Research in Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education for the Fourth Industrial Revolution', the conference aims to focus on crucial discussions that will shape the future of education in the southern African region.
Evolving systems
Deputy prime minister and minister of international relations, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, highlighted the pivotal role of mathematics, science and technology in the social and economic development of any nation, setting the stage for expectations from the global community.
In the face of the fourth industrial revolution, Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasised the necessity for educational systems to evolve. Traditional teaching methods are deemed insufficient, urging a shift towards interdisciplinary approaches fostering creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
"As educators and researchers, it is our responsibility to pave the way for a future generation equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow," stressed Nandi-Ndaitwah.
Adapting to a new world
The workforce demands proficiency in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects, coupled with adaptability to rapid changes. The call for focused research and deep understanding of communities echoes the urgency to address disparities in STEM education.
The challenges outlined encompass insufficient access to quality education, a shortage of qualified teachers, and obstacles hindering the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills in science education. The conference seeks collaborative efforts to modernise laboratory infrastructure, update curricula and promote hands-on learning experiences.
In addressing the swiftly evolving technological landscape, Nandi-Ndaitwah stressed the need for a collective effort to provide equitable access to technology, integrate digital literacy into curricula and establish mechanisms for continuous skill development.
Continuous development
The conference aims to encourage innovative research, foster interdisciplinary collaborations and propose evidence-based policy recommendations to governments and educational institutions.
The spotlight is on teacher professional development, with an emphasis on continuous improvement to adapt to evolving educational landscapes.
The role of technology integration in education is pivotal, and discussions around best practices for bridging the digital divide and leveraging technology for personalised learning are anticipated. The conference is set to facilitate global collaboration, aiming to establish partnerships and collaborations among institutions, researchers and educators globally.