Wednesday, 21 September 2022

STEM education

Dr KIEU (South Eastern Metropolitan) (10:37): I am proudly Victoria’s inaugural STEM education ambassador. I thank the previous Minister for Education, the Honourable James Merlino, for my appointment and all his help. I would also like to thank the new Minister for Education, the Honourable Natalie Hutchins, and the Department of Education and Training for their unwavering support and assistance.

I have had the opportunity to visit Victoria’s 18 specialist STEM education facilities, comprising 10 tech schools, two STEM centres of excellence and six science and mathematics specialist centres. I have also spoken at conferences and many other events and compiled a report entitled STEM Education in the Education State of Australia.The time to focus on STEM education is now. It is at the forefront of our economic recovery, growth and social development, and it is crucial to strengthening our technological sovereignty.

What a journey this has been for me so far. My first term in the Victorian Parliament can be categorised as exciting and challenging. It has been a privilege to advocate for STEM, STEM education and our multicultural communities. I have been so honoured to represent the South Eastern Metropolitan Region and hope to continue to do so. Either way: thank you, Victoria.