SMART SUBJECTS KEY FOR GLOBAL SUCCESS

 

Workers need the skills to meet industry needs

writes RDA Hunter CEO Todd Williams

 

For Australia to compete internationally, we need to have our brightest and best in industry on the world stage. Unfortunately in Australia not enough of our students are studying core subjects – Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (collectively referred to as STEM) – ‘smart’ subjects that lead to careers in design, engineering and advanced technology industries.

The impacts of declining student numbers in STEM subjects on Australia’s capacity to respond to global challenges has been recognised by the Australian Industry Group, the Chief Scientist for Australia, the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute and other peak body organisations.

Traditionally, the Hunter has ranked below the Australian and NSW averages for students doing STEM subjects. We need more students to be STEM literate because as graduates they will be equipped to perform in the competitive workforce of the future.

Recently Regional Development Australia (RDA) Hunter hosted the highly regarded corporate adviser Bernard Salt to talk about scenarios for the Hunter’s future. He presented numerous – some new, others we know about, and some already underway in the Hunter.

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RDA Hunter 2013 Year in Review