The Atlantis Special Economic Zone (ASEZ) launched their STEAM Programme, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering Atlantis youth with Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) education at the Saxonsea Secondary School on Friday 25 August.
Forty local youth took part and received an unique and comprehensive education experience said Jean Baartman, Skills Development Specialist of the ASEZCo.
The curriculum encompassed a diverse array of subjects, including Entry Level Electronics, Introduction to Programming, Physical Computing and Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Tailored for grade 8 learners, this hands-on learning initiative aims to foster creativity, spark discovery, and enhance knowledge retention Baartman said.
The ASEZCo has appointed the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) to implement the programme. Over the course of 26 Saturdays the university provides expert guidance to learners from the five schools, Lynn Hendricks, from CPUT, explained. Recognizing the shortage of science labs and equipment in local schools, CPUT will host the sessions at its well-equipped science labs, exposing students to cutting-edge technology for project development, Hendricks said.
The programme culminates in a competition where participating schools showcased solutions to real-world challenges, with the most innovative model or prototype receiving a prize.
Baartman said this programme will prepare these learners to be career-ready and enable them to engage in critical thinking for both personal and academic choices.
“This is true whether they pursue technical, engineering, or renewable energy career pathways,” Baartman urged.
