The shortage of skilled workers in the fields of mathematics, information technology, natural sciences and technology (STEM) is considerable - also in the Lower Rhine region. The most important task is therefore to get young people interested in STEM professions.
On Tuesday, the MINT network for the region focused on how this can be achieved by joining forces. Around 120 interested people accepted the invitation from the joint project "MINT in Mind" on the Krefeld South Campus of The Hochschule Niederrhein (HSNR). Under the motto "Pooling resources, creating synergies, inspiring children", representatives from business, local authorities, educational institutions, schools and youth centers took part.
"MINT in Mind", sponsored by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research, aims to get young people interested in the exciting opportunities in the STEM fields. The networking event was organized by the HSNR, the Centre for Digital Learning Worlds of the City of Krefeld, the City of Mönchengladbach with its associated WFMG, the Middle Lower Rhine Regional Agency and the two zdi centers Mönchengladbach and KReMINTec in Krefeld. Dr. Jens Stuhldreier from the North Rhine-Westphalian Ministry of Labour, Health and Social Affairs, Mönchengladbach's Lord Mayor Felix Heinrichs, Krefeld's Mayor Karsten Ludwig and Prof. Dr. Berthold Stegemerten as HSNR Vice President for Studies and Teaching Education emphasized in their welcoming addresses how important it is for all stakeholders to network and exchange ideas.
In workshops, panel discussions and lectures, they discussed which offers need to be further developed. For example, how can companies get actively involved in promoting STEM fields? How can schools be supported with STEM offerings? Teachers from the Albert Schweitzer School in Krefeld reported on the innovative approach they use to reach pupils whose potential can easily be overlooked due to their life situation.
A presentation and panel discussion on these "easy to ignore" groups as well as pitch presentations by STEM providers from the region were further highlights. The program also included workshops in which challenges and possible courses of action were discussed in order to reach even more students. As "easy to ignore" groups, for example, children and young people with a migrant background and from households living in poverty need to be more involved.
The Market of Opportunities showcased the diversity of the region with 21 STEM providers, including the zdi centers in Mönchengladbach, Krefeld and Viersen, school and film labs, the coding school and JuniorUni.
Prof. Dr. Monika Eigenstetter, head of the joint project, is delighted with the positive response: "We hope that this event is just the beginning of networking. Our vision is to network the various STEM education locations and provide better support for young people. Every young person should be able to make the most of their potential."
