8 February 2024
In today’s rapidly evolving global landscape, the significance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education cannot be overstated. As we navigate complex challenges such as climate change, technological advancements, and global health crises, fostering a strong foundation in STEM education is imperative. Across Southeast Asia, including Thailand, efforts are underway to enhance STEM education, ensuring that the next generation is equipped with the necessary skills to tackle these challenges head-on.
One notable initiative making significant strides in advancing STEM education in Thailand is the Chevron Enjoy Science project, a collaboration between Chevron Thailand and SEAMEO STEM-ED (Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organisation Regional Centre for STEM Education). Now in its second phase, this project has been running for the past eight years with the aim of fostering innovation and democratising STEM education, catering not only to science majors but to a broader audience.
At its core, the Chevron Enjoy Science project encompasses and connects STEM learning both inside and outside the classroom. It operates in collaboration with leading national and international educational organisations, leveraging diverse resources and expertise to enrich STEM education experiences. By doing so, the project strives to equip youth efficiently for the challenges of the 21st century, preparing them for careers in fields ranging from renewable energy to biotechnology.
Dr. Kritsachai Somsaman, Director of SEAMEO STEM-ED, emphasised the inclusive nature of the project, stating, “This project, a collaboration between SEAMEO STEM-ED and Chevron Thailand, emerged from the fundamental question ‘How can we make STEM education accessible to everyone?’ It not only targets students but also engages all sectors, fostering progress from learners to educators to policymakers, ultimately leading to tangible and evidence-based results tailored to Thailand’s learning environment.”
Over the past eight years, the impact of the Chevron Enjoy Science project has been substantial. It has involved 724 educational institutions and benefited over three million individuals through cooperation with 152 network partners. More than 165,635 individuals have been reached and educated about STEM, highlighting the project’s widespread reach and influence within the community.
Mr. Pativate Boonyapaluk, Vice President of Chevron Thailand Exploration and Production Ltd., underscored the importance of nurturing STEM education skills from a young age, emphasising its role in fostering innovation and addressing environmental challenges. He stated, “Encouraging students to develop STEM education skills from a young age is considered one of the key strategies that will help create an innovative society and generate new technologies to address environmental problems that the world is facing… The results of the eight-year works by Chevron and our partners in the Chevron Enjoy Science project serve as a vital model and policy for the future of STEM education.”
Initiatives like the Chevron Enjoy Science project exemplify the collaborative efforts underway to advance STEM education in Thailand. By engaging diverse stakeholders and promoting inclusive learning experiences, these initiatives are laying the groundwork for a more innovative and sustainable future. As we continue to navigate an increasingly complex world, investing in STEM education remains crucial for driving progress and addressing global challenges.
