Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and training

Towards a 10-year plan for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and skills in Queensland discussion paper.

The role of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) cannot be underestimated in preparing Queenslanders for the challenges and opportunities of the future. The Queensland economy is booming. Strong demand for natural resources, particularly coal and minerals exports, and the fastest-growing population in Australia are priming the rapid growth of Queensland's economy.

However, Queensland's future prosperity cannot rely solely on the buoyancy of traditional industries and dynamic population growth. Global competition, market instabilities and changing trends in immigration are placing increasing pressures on the growth of the state's economy.

The Queensland Government has developed the Towards a 10-year plan for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and skills in Queensland discussion paper (new window) 313k to examine the issues Queensland must address to stay ahead of the game in an increasingly competitive and volatile global marketplace. In considering a long-term plan for STEM education and skills development we are laying the foundations now to prepare for the Queensland of tomorrow.

The discussion paper aims to stimulate and guide discussion on future policy directions. It raises issues that need to be considered to develop a long-term STEM plan. To supplement the discussion paper, a highlights brochure (new window) 164k has been prepared to provide a summary of key issues and questions raised in the discussion paper.

Responses are sought from schools, training providers, universities, peak and professional organisations, researchers, industry bodies, Government agencies and others to contribute to the way forward for STEM education and skills in Queensland.

Responses are required by 30 November 2007.

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