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L. Capacity Building Programme on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and

Mathematics)

Background

Stressing the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
education will drive India’s global competitiveness. The world is changing rapidly and the
importance of science and technology is increasing in every aspect of life. India’s education
system therefore must keep pace with global standards when it comes to STEM education. The
significance of education in scientific fields, must instil a scientific temper in the young minds
of India, preparing them for global leadership in science and technology. The goal is not just to
train teachers but to nurture future scientists, researchers, and innovators through the
empowerment of faculty. It is emphasized that Innovation is the key to progress, and our
education system should nurture innovators, especially in the fields of STEM.

MoE has identified 8 Sector-Specific Groups (SSGs) based on their relevance to the changing
world such as Agriculture, Health & Bio-electronics, Banking, Financial Services & Insurance

(BFSI), Energy, Logistics, Digital & Creative Economy, AI in Engineering and Manufacturing &
Industry 4.0 to identify the emerging needs of the respective sectors and to facilitate
corresponding upgrades in academic and the corresponding capacity building Programmes.
Designing STEM modules in a manner that effectively equip faculty with knowledge of eight
key subjects relevant to the future of work, addressing the needs of the emerging workforce is
the need of the hour.

The Department of Higher Education in its 5 year action plan has targeted to increase the
number of patents filed by educational institutes from current 19,430 to 50,000, number of start-

ups incubated by HEIs from 4,600 to 15, 000, and number of technology transfers from 25 to
1000. Capitalizing the Human Capital and Research India targets to attain within top 5
countries in the Global Innovation Index (GNI) global ranking.

Strengthening capacity of college teachers/ faculty in the area of STEM subjects is crucial to
ensure enhanced output in Science, Engineering and Mathematics. Focus in these areas of
capacity building is essential for maintaining and improving the quality of education by
providing educators with updated knowledge, innovative teaching strategies, and professional
development opportunities. This initiative is aligned with Ministry of Education commitment
to improving educational standards and fostering excellence in STEM .

Introduction

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aims to transform India into a global knowledge
superpower, with a focus on fostering innovation, critical thinking, and leadership through the
promotion of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education. The Hon’ble
Prime Minister has frequently emphasized the need for quality education and skill
development, particularly in the fields of science and technology, to drive the nation's progress.

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes the importance of STEM education and
training of faculty in STEM in following ways:

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