UNESCO center promotes STEM education for developing countries

The UNESCO IISTEM in Shanghai will reduce global disparities in education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, with a focus on supporting developing countries, officials said on Wednesday.

Established last month, the institute marks the first settlement of a Category 1 Institute of UNESCO in China, as well as outside Europe and the United States.

In recent years, developing countries, especially Africa and small island countries, have been strongly calling on UNESCO to strengthen cooperation in STEM education and enhance their innovative development capabilities, said Qin Changwei, secretary-general of the Chinese National Commission for UNESCO.

In response to the urgent need of the vast number of developing countries, China proposed to UNESCO the establishing of a new global category 1 center, aiming to promote global exchanges and cooperation in STEM education, Qin said.

"We will provide stronger support for the development of STEM education in developing countries," he said at a press conference held by the Ministry of Education.

Stefania Giannini, assistant director-general for education at UNESCO, said through a video link that the new global institute, one of the ten global category 1 institutes of UNESCO, will contribute to achieving inclusive education for all, which is one of the sustainable development goals.

Shahbaz Khan, representative of UNESCO Mutisectoral Regional Office for East Asia, said STEM education is the key of innovation and can contribute to economic growth and development.

"IISTEM is established to respond to the growing demand for STEM education, especially in Africa," he said. "It will function as a hub for international exchange, offering a repository of cutting-edge resources and best practices in STEM education," he said, adding that the institute is not just a local entity but a global influencer.

Zhou Yaming, director of Shanghai Municipal Education Commission, said the institute will be situated in Shanghai's Xuhui district, which is renowned for its scientific innovation and international education resources.

Having completed the construction of main structure, the site with multiple functions can effectively meet the work and activities needed by the institute, he said.