13 Oct 2024

BrainStream, a local institution that offers Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) teaching, has launched a community project that has so far benefited eight public schools.

Speaking in a recent interview, Head of Education at BrainStream, Mr Mohit Lohani said the initiative rollout had reached numerous schools, including Segoditshane, Mophane, Masa, Taung, Boikhutso, Camp primary and Mokgosi III Memorial School including Marang Junior Secondary School. 

He said learners from these schools had been introduced to STEM, robotics, and engineering through engaging, hands-on learning activities.

"This programme ensures equal opportunities for both boys and girls, helping them stay competitive in the fast-paced world of technology," he said, adding that the company worked closely with the schools heads to in introducing the programme and are awaiting authorisation from the Department of Education to spread to more schools.

Mr Lohani explained that outstanding pupils from these sessions were offered free after-school robotics classes at Brainstream's facility to further enhance their skills.

"It's crucial to introduce STEM education at an early age to give students the tools they need to thrive in a technologically advanced world," he added.

He opined that every child should have the opportunity to explore coding and robotics, given the increasing role of technology in everyday life.

Mr Lohani emphasised the importance of engaging girls in STEM, noting that they had shown great potential.

"Girls need to be exposed to these opportunities early, and parents should understand the benefits of this kind of exposure in developing problem-solving skills and creativity in their children," Mr Lohani said.

He disclosed that the response from both pupils and teachers had been overwhelmingly positive.

Mr Lohani added that teachers, too, had embraced Brainstream's approach, leading to the development of a STEM and Robotics Educator Certification Course, which were designed to help them integrate technology into their classrooms.

"This course ensures that teachers stay updated with evolving curricula and prevents job loss due to technological advancements," Lohani explained.

One of the beneficiaries, Ms Sheila Selebo, Computer Science Senior Teacher at Chobe Junior Secondary School in Kasane, expressed gratitude to BrainStream for teaching Robotics and Coding.

Ms Elena Liteta, a teacher at Humpty Dumpty Preschool in Gaborone, highlighted the importance of introducing children to STEM and Robotics activities, stating that they not only had fun, but also learnt how to design, programme, and create content.

"This allows children to think outside the box and engage in real world challenges," she observed. Ends