SIX Mallee students have been selected to participate in a unique coaching program for the next generation of female STEM leaders.
The four-day online Curious Minds Summer Program kicked off for East Coast students on December 12 and is supported by a mentoring program and follow-up winter camp.
Students selected for the program include Hayley Cumming from Donald High School, Shaqayeq Razaie and Shelby Chamberlain from Chaffey Secondary College, Kira Harkin from Red Cliffs Secondary College, and Maya Tonzing from Irymple Secondary College.
Member for Mallee Anne Webster congratulated the students on being among 111 Year 9 and 10 girls selected nationwide as part of the Curious Minds program, supported by the Australian Government.
“We know that many future jobs will require maths and science skills,” Dr Webster said.
“This program will give talented students a flying start into a possible career in one of these fields.
“I’m sure that they will be outstanding ambassadors for Mallee.”
The program is delivered by the Australian Mathematics Trust and features a summer camp, followed by six months of coaching, and concludes with a winter camp.
This year’s summer camp, held online due to COVID-19, ran from December 12 to 15.
Minister for Regional Education Bridget McKenzie said the program was an innovative way of engaging young women in fields in which they have been typically underrepresented.
“Many of the jobs of the future will require STEM skills, and we want to make sure girls are not just able to succeed in a career in STEM but excel as leaders in their field,” Ms McKenzie said.
“The participants will benefit from the expertise and mentorship of 94 STEM coaches and will also be encouraged to build lasting friendships with likeminded students.”
Since 2014, the Federal Government has provided more than $4 million for the program, supporting the participation of more than 400 girls.
