VICTORIA, Seychelles — A study has highlighted serious challenges in STEM education in Seychelles, with student performance in STEM subjects not progressing as expected over the last decade. The study notes a significant gap between the implementation targets set by the National Development Strategy 2019-2023 and the actual level of student attainment in STEM subjects, reflecting a downward trend over a six-year period.
‘The significant gap between the implementation targets set by the National Development Strategy 2019-2023, and the actual level of student attainment in STEM subjects — reflecting a downward trend over a six-year period — has to be a matter of serious national concern,’ the study states. Possible reasons for this gap include unrealistic targets or insufficient resources within the education system. The study questions whether the education system is equipped to meet these objectives without significant additional investment.
According to the study, in these circumstances, a comprehensive study merits consideration, to establish why, over the period 2014 to 2023, the level of student attainment in STEM subjects has not progressed in line with official strategy targets, and to identify what urgent actions need to be taken to address what is now a serious challenging situation. The NDS 2024-2028 identifies education as a priority area and underscores the importance of STEM in fostering economic diversification and innovation. However, as highlighted in the study, achieving meaningful improvements in STEM education will require a national commitment to invest in teacher training, technology and engaging learning materials.
