The InterAcademy Partnership Science Education Programme Working Group held a two-day meeting in March 2023 in Rabat, Morocco, to discuss the latest trends and challenges in science education. The meeting was attended by members of the Global Council and invited participants, including science educators, researchers, policymakers, and representatives from scientific organizations and the Hassan II Academy of Sciences and Technology. The Global Young Academy was represented by Co-Chair, Priscilla Kolibea Mante (Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana), an ex-officio member of the Global Council.
The first day of the meeting began with keynote addresses that covered science education as well as the concept of Inquiry-Based Science Education (IBSE) and their roles in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Other speakers presented overviews of the current state of science education in different countries, which highlighted the need for more engagement with STEM subjects, particularly among underrepresented groups. The value of science centres, museums and camps was also covered. Throughout the presentations, the group discussed various approaches and best practices for improving science education, including teacher training programs, hands-on learning experiences, curriculum reform and innovative teaching methods in science education. They also discussed the potential benefits and challenges of using these tools, such as cost and accessibility. A round table discussion at the end of the day focussed on how to efficiently share best practices and resources, especially in low-resource settings.
On the second day, the IAP SEP Global Council business meeting focused on regional reports from members of the Global Council. The Global Young Academy gave a 10-minute report on its Science Education activities with special emphasis on the Expedition Mundus game and Science Education for Youth workshop planned as a pre-conference activity for AGM 2023 in Kigali, Rwanda. Updates on current activities of the IAP SEP group, including the ISTEC project which aims to establish Science and Technology Centres in LMICs were given. A renewal of IAP SEP Global Council members status and voting in new members was the last activity of the day.
Throughout the meeting, participants emphasized the importance of collaboration and sharing resources across institutions and countries. They also discussed the need for continued research and evaluation of science education programmes to ensure their effectiveness and sustainability.
Overall, the Science Education Programme Working Group meeting was a valuable opportunity for participants to share their knowledge and experiences and work towards advancing science education globally. The group agreed to continue to meet regularly and collaborate on initiatives to promote science education and engagement in their respective communities.
Read the IAP meeting report here: IAP discusses Science Education in Morocco (interacademies.org)