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A recent
survey by U-Report India, (a digital platform by UNICEF that engages young
people in programme priorities, emergency response and advocacy actions),
revealed some interesting insights into how young Indian female youth feel
about their future in the Science, Technology, Engineering,
Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) sector. The survey,
which was conducted on August 2, 2023, received responses from 17,620
U-Reporters across India, with the highest participation from Haryana (7,107
responders), followed by Uttar Pradesh (2,768 responders) and Bihar (1,932
responders). The survey aimed to understand the aspirations, challenges,
and opportunities of young people in pursuing STEAM education and careers, as
well as their views on gender equality and social impact in this sector. The survey results showed that most of the respondents (79%)
were interested in pursuing a career in STEAM fields, with engineering
being the most popular choice (38%), followed by technology (24%)
and science (18%). However, only 58% of the respondents felt
confident about their chances of getting a job in STEAM fields after completing
their education. The main reasons for their lack of confidence were the lack of
guidance and mentorship (35%), the lack of quality education and
infrastructure (28%), and the lack of opportunities and exposure (20%).
Moreover, only 48% of the respondents felt that they had adequate access to
STEAM learning resources and opportunities in their schools or communities.
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The survey
also revealed some gender disparities in the perceptions and
experiences of young people in STEAM fields. While 83% of the female
respondents were interested in pursuing a career in STEAM. 68%
of the female respondents felt confident about getting a job in STEAM
fields. The main barriers faced by female respondents cost, location and access barriers (29%), and being busy with school work (27%). On a positive note, the survey also showed that young
people in India were aware of the importance and potential of STEAM fields
for social good and sustainable development. Furthermore, 63% of the respondents see their career in STEAM. The survey
results highlight some of the key challenges and opportunities for promoting and
supporting STEAM education and careers among young people in India. They also
underscore the need for more investment, innovation and inclusion in this
sector, especially for girls and marginalized groups. |
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As former UNICEF
India Representative Dr. Yasmin Ali Haque said, “We need to ensure that every
child has access to quality STEAM education that nurtures their curiosity,
creativity and critical thinking skills.” |
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Pic
credit: Snehashis Saha |
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U-Report
India is one such platform that aims to empower young people to speak out on
issues that matter to them and influence decision-making at local, national,
and global levels. By joining U-Report India., you can share your opinions,
ideas and solutions on diverse topics related to your rights, well-being, and
future. You can also access information, resources and opportunities that can
help you achieve your goals and aspirations. To join
U-Report India, you can text ‘JOIN’ on Facebook Messenger
(@ureport.india), Telegram (@ureportindia_bot), Instagram (@ureportindia) or
WhatsApp (9650414141). |
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Sources: https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/01/1110402 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Learning_crisis https://www.unicef.org/reports/state-global-learning-poverty-2022 https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2018/08/global-learning-crisis-millions-without https://india.ureport.in/ https://www.unicef.org/india/press-releases/unicef-india-and-yuwaah-launch-missionlife Co Author: Sayed Danish Arfat |
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