In a bid to address educational disparities and foster diversity in STEM education, INCO Academy Australia has unveiled the Enter Tech program. Authored by Fiona Madigan, APAC Lead at INCO, the initiative aims to provide First Nations students with equal educational opportunities while bolstering the community sector through training and development.
The Enter Tech program is designed to cultivate curiosity and creativity among First Nations students by offering a hands-on learning experience. Comprising three key objectives - Theory, Practical, and Production - the initiative immerses students in the world of technology, teaching them not only how it works but also how it can be applied in various fields. Moreover, the program emphasizes post-school employment, tertiary education, and TAFE pathways, ensuring students are prepared for future opportunities.
A noteworthy aspect of Enter Tech is its incorporation of Aboriginal perspectives and storytelling, made possible through consultation with 8ways, an Aboriginal pedagogical framework. This approach not only enhances the learning journey but also ensures that STEM education is delivered in a manner familiar to First Nations communities.
Flexibility is another hallmark of the Enter Tech program, enabling teachers and students to explore STEM areas such as app and software development, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Moreover, the initiative underscores the importance of collaboration between schools, Indigenous-led non-profits, and institutions working directly with First Nations communities.
Enter Tech is more than just an educational endeavor; it is a tool for empowerment, identity affirmation, and a collective commitment to a brighter and more equitable future. By nurturing future First Nations innovators and thinkers, the program seeks to pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse tech landscape.
Scheduled for launch in February 2023, Enter Tech represents a significant step towards bridging educational gaps and supporting First Nations students in realizing their potential in STEM fields.
