Ministers discussed initiatives relating to the participation and performance of Australian school students in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
STEM skills are essential in creating and turning new ideas and inventions into lucrative, internationally competitive Australian products, services and exports. STEM studies also develop generic skills such as problem solving, critical thinking and creativity, which are used in a variety of occupations and are important to increasing Australia’s productivity.
Ministers agreed to collaborate nationally in developing a STEM school education strategy for increasing STEM participation in schools. Senior officials will report back to Ministers on the strategy later in the year.