More students to access STEM in Ballarat

New opportunities: BRMC's Tahsina Tasnim and Anusha Lakshmanan, and Brainary's Emma Hardaker, ACU's Dr Luke Parker, BRMC executive officer Suzanne Ryan-Evers, and Ballarat Libraries' Jo Lockwood and City of Ballarat deputy mayor Cr Ben Taylor, Member for Ballarat Catherine King, and Brainary's Hugh Kingsley at the launch. Photo: SUPPLIED

STUDENTS in the Ballarat area will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on science, technology, engineering and maths creativity and learning thanks to a $100,000 grant from the Federal Government.

The funding has been provided to The Brainary to deliver a STEM initiative for local 12 to 18-year-olds.

The program will be delivered in collaboration with Ballarat Libraries, Ballarat and District Aboriginal Cooperative (BADAC) and the Ballarat Regional Multicultural Council (BRMC).

Students will be provided with hands-on opportunities to develop science, technology, engineering and maths skills while also exploring potential careers in STEM.

The Brainary is a leading provider of STEM education programs and learning resources designed to inspire the next generation of problem solvers and innovators.

With a strong focus on accessibility and inclusion, The Brainary delivers high-quality STEM incursions, workshops and educational tools across Australia.

At the program launch at the Ballarat Library, representatives from BADAC and BRMC were introduced to the tech that will support their facilitation of the upcoming workshops.

“We want to make sure that young people, no matter where they live, have the same opportunities as kids from the city to engage in and learn about STEM,” Member for Ballarat Catherine King said.

“STEM is fun and engaging and we’ll need more young Australians to pursue STEM skills and qualifications, so they’re equipped to work in future industries.”

The Brainary director Hugh Kingsley said the support from the Federal Government will help bridge a STEM gap and provide young people in Ballarat with valuable learning opportunities.

“By working closely with BADAC, BRMC and Ballarat Libraries, we aim to create a welcoming and inspiring environment where every participant can explore their potential in STEM,” he said.