- In recent years, the concept of STEAM has gained popularity in the world of education. According to the National Science Foundation, “To succeed in this new highly information-based and technology-driven society, students need to develop their capabilities in STEAM to levels much beyond what was considered acceptable in the past.”
STEAM builds upon the concept of STEM by emphasizing the integral role of the arts and creativity in the learning process. Specifically, STEAM provides value by exposing young-adults to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. When the Arts are infused into STEM, you create the platform for children to engage critically, creatively and confidently in their learning.
Science is everywhere in the world around us. Technology is continuously expanding into every aspect of our lives. Engineering is the basic design of roads and bridges, but also tackles the challenges of changing global weather and environmentally-friendly changes to our homes. Mathematics is in every occupation, every activity we do in our lives.
By exposing students to STEAM and giving them opportunities to explore STEAM-related concepts, they will develop a passion for it and hopefully pursue a job in a STEAM field. We want to create opportunities to see how STEAM concepts relate to life in order to hopefully spark a passion for a future career in a STEAM field.
The Kwara STEAM Fun Festival is, therefore, an opportunity for children to explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) with the hope of inspiring them to have creative confidence, critical thinking ability and collaboration skills which the 21st-century economy requires. Indeed, children need to acquire 21st-century learning opportunities and skills that will adequately prepare them for the increasingly competitive world we live in.
With the theme ‘Igniting Children’s Passion in STEAM’, the Fest aims to inspire children’s love for STEAM and enlighten teachers and parents about opportunities in STEAM.
The STEAMFest will bring together more than 40 exhibitors and organisations who are developing products and creating activities around STEAM to showcase their products and inspire children. No fewer than 1000 school students, 150 teachers and 200 parents/guardians will attend the one-day event, where they will have the opportunity to participate in FREE hands-on activities and learn about the possibilities and opportunities in STEAM. The school students will have the chance to meet and interact with STEAM heroes, and be inspired to want to follow their footsteps and/or forge their own path.
The STEAMFest is open to students across primary and secondary schools in Kwara State and will hold in November, 2022. Participating students and schools will also have the opportunity to display their winning projects in Science and Technology. The event promises to be an explosion of creativity and innovation.
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