CALL FOR BALANCED EDUCATIONAL APPROACH

Sir,

The Ministry of Education and Training’s ambitious vision in its action plans, aiming to increase the number of teachers specialising in Mathematics, Science and Information and Communication Technology (ICT), collectively referred to as STEM subjects, by 20 per cent was designed to enhance educational engagement in these critical fields and subsequently increase the workforce in these areas. However, this focus on STEM may inadvertently influence secondary and tertiary students’ subject choices, steering them towards these fields in line with national development goals.

Beneficial

While this is beneficial for filling technical roles, it has led to a noticeable decline in enrolment in other essential subjects, notably Economics. An examination of enrolment statistics over the past three years reveals that Economics has consistently ranked among the lowest in terms of student uptake, often placing fifth from the bottom among the twelve elective subjects in the EGCSE curriculum.

This trend is concerning, as studying Economics equips individuals with invaluable skills that are applicable across a variety of contexts. The subject provides practical knowledge that empowers individuals to make informed micro-economic decisions, such as budgeting, saving and investing. Moreover, it offers insights into significant contemporary issues, including inflation and unemployment, and fosters a deeper understanding of public policy matters such as taxation, government spending and regulatory frameworks. Economics is inherently practical and relevant, making it a beneficial area of study for virtually everyone, regardless of their chosen career path.

Investment

It can be regarded as an investment in human capital, possessing enduring strategic value for the continuity and advancement of human society. In this rapidly evolving world, the workforce of the future will largely depend on STEM careers. Nevertheless, as individuals pursue these STEM-related paths, it remains crucial for them to comprehend the economic landscape surrounding their fields. To this end, government should not solely concentrate on promoting STEM subjects; there is an equally pressing need to foster economic literacy among the youth. Neglecting this aspect may result in a significant gap in human capital development, leaving individuals ill-equipped with the necessary skills and mindsets for career success and active participation in the economy. For instance, government encourages youth engagement in various economic activities, including STEM initiatives, entrepreneurship and agricultural ventures.

Understanding

However, one must ask: How effectively can the youth engage if they lack a foundational understanding of economic principles and their role within the economy? As our nation strives for economic advancement, it is imperative that all citizens, particularly the youth, cultivate a basic understanding of economic concepts. Therefore, alongside the promotion of STEM subjects, there must be a concerted effort to encourage subjects that enhance economic literacy. Failure to address this issue could lead to widespread economic ignorance, which, in turn, hampers national growth and development.

A balanced educational approach that prioritises both STEM and economic literacy is essential for preparing our youth to thrive in a complex economic environment. By equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge, we can ensure their effective participation in the economy, thereby fostering sustainable development for our nation.

Wenele F Msibi

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