BE STEM WISE
Youth urged to tap into STEM entrepreneurship Government develops Communication strategy for STEM fields
There are many economic opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields which young Batswana can tap into, and even develop commercial businesses.
In fact, STEM entrepreneurship is a scalable field to bolster the country’s economic revenue and create employment for youth.
This was reiterated at the inaugural Botswana National Science Week Youth webinar, which sought to capacitate youth interested in or studying STEM fields, on improving their skills-set as the country strives to become a knowledge-based economy.
The webinar was held under the theme: ‘Fuelling socio-economic transformation through STEM awareness and Innovation.’
Chemical Engineer and lecturer at BIUST, Thapelo Shoshomana said it is important for youth to utilise their knowledge to create business opportunities.
The first step, he said, is to look around and notice, for example, that most products in Botswana are imported. Developing these products requires STEM technical expertise for enhanced technical and mechanical approaches. “There are high rewards to gain from experience and knowledge. When you have a business idea, do research and back it up with a solid business plan and the chances of getting funding will be increased. “Most institutions would not turn down a great business plan, particularly when they realise that a lot of research went into putting it together,” he said.
Chemical and forensic scientist, Oratile Semong said economic prospects might currently seem bleak for many youths, especially as it is tougher than ever to break into the job market, yet this should not deter young people, but rather motivate them to work harder to set themselves apart.
“It is tough times in the job market but you can put yourself ahead by upskilling. For example, when I started out, I took my recommendation letter to organisations and applied for learner-ships. “I wanted to translate the theory knowledge I had into the practical, real-time experience. Be intentional about your growth. It is also important to invest in marketing and networking: attend conferences, link up with like-minded people and increase your knowledge and know people who can help you develop your career and identify new opportunities.”
Associate researcher at BITRI, Karabo Hamu advised the youth to be proactive and seek new opportunities. “Don’t sit at home and wait for job adverts, go out there and seek opportunities. After I graduated, I continued studying. I was an IT graduate who did human-computer design and wound up doing an MSc – I was working and incorporated teaching and learning. It is important to keep evolving and growing”. Kabazo Moseki said Government policy was steering towards empowering youth in STEM and investing in projects and businesses in STEM. He noted that young people interested in STEM fields should package their knowledge and skills in a way that they can monetise them. “Science can be commercialised, and youth in STEM fields should keep this in mind,” he advised. Moseki added that Government is currently coming with strategies on science and technology engagement to unleash opportunities in institutions.
“Government is working on the implementation of a communication strategy, where institutions will identify problems and engage society to find solutions to improve society.
“In certain instances, for example, once there is a product conceptualised locally, there will be research, experts will be engaged to assess the product and once this is all concluded, there will be a drive to support the ideas. “However, it is the responsibility of youth to work with institutions to identify new opportunities in STEM fields.”