SA’s Aboriginal students will have the opportunity to study Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics subjects at the first ever STEM Academy.
After a partnership with the University of Adelaide was formed, the SA Aboriginal Sports Training Academy formed the new academy to allow students in Years 11 and 12 who are interested in studying STEM subjects to participate in the program beyond its sports academies.
Students will be able to learn in a university environment in the University of Adelaide’s Wirltu Yarlu Aboriginal Education Centre, who will also provide mentors and academic tutors to support the students.
All participating students will be studying a Stage 2 Scientific Studies as well as a Stage 1 Aboriginal Studies or Stage 2 University Studies, all of which will contribute towards achieving their SACE.
Minister for Education John Gardner said the Academy’s expansion would bring greater opportunities for Aboriginal students in pursuing the jobs of the future.
“We hope that the exposure to a higher education environment will encourage students to consider studying STEM at university level,” he said.
“It has been predicted that by 2025, one in every seven workers in SA will be in a STEM related job, and the Government is committed to supporting young South Australians to develop these skills.”
University of Adelaide’s dean of Indigenous research and education Shane Hearn also welcomed the partnership.
“The Aboriginal STEM Academy is about future proofing; the majority of the jobs of the future are going to be in the STEM field and we want Aboriginal people to play an active role in all parts of society, now and in the future,” Professor Hearn said.
“This program is a first of its kind and focuses on allowing young Aboriginal people to be active learners and engage in the STEM subject matter within a university setting,” he said.
