The advent of a guide to Australia’s science, technology, engineering and mathematics programmes means that schools will soon be equipped with the tools to foster the next generation of STEM skilled Australians.

The Australian Industry Group, in collaboration with the Office of the Chief Scientist have produced a STEM Education Programme Index in order to help encourage new ideas in education and to increase Australia’s involvement with STEM.

The index contains more that 250 STEM-related programmes throughout Australia, and includes in-class, after school, holiday, residential and online activities, catering to both primary and secondary school students.

The Office of the Chief Scientist says the new resource “responds to growing interest from the business community, and amongst STEM professionals, in sharing the task of building the future economy.”

“In order to build a competitive economy, we need workers with the kinds of skills developed in STEM-related disciplines,” Australian Industry Group Chief Executive Innes Willox said.

“This will not be achieved unless STEM skills are provided in the pipeline to the workforce. This resource provides a wealth of information for schools and industry alike to become leaders in STEM skills activity.”

February, 2016.