St. Benedict’s College launches first school-based STEM education centre

Wednesday, 29 January 2025 00:06 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Marlon Fernandopulle

St. Benedict’s College, one of the oldest Catholic Schools in the country, recently opened a state-of-the-art STEM Education Centre, marking a step towards re-shaping education for the 21st century.

The event held under the patronage of Science and Technology Minister Prof. Chrishantha Abeysena was presided along with the St. Benedict’s College Director Dr. Pubudu Rajapaksha and Project Consultant Prof. Ranjith Dediwalage.

The STEM Centre at St. Benedict’s College, which incidentally is the first such facility to be opened in a School in Sri Lanka is part of their 21st century learning approach, aiming to provide students opportunities to engage in robotics, drones, 3D design, 3D printing, and coding in various languages. This comprehensive program is designed to inspire a passion for science and technology and equip students with the skills necessary for future careers in these fields.

Addressing the gathering of students, parents, teachers, alumni, and well-wishers, the Chief Guest Professor Chrysantha Abeysena emphasised that this 21st century learning initiative is a significant milestone for the school and the future of education in our country.

Referring to the Government’s vision, outlined in the policy document “A Thriving Nation, A Beautiful Life”, the Minister highlighted the Government’s emphasis on modernising education to meet 21st century challenges. He underscored critical pillars of reform, such as adopting student-centred approaches, equipping students with essential skills for innovation, and cultivating competencies such as technological literacy, intellectual curiosity, and critical thinking.

Prof. Abeysena elaborated that the 21st century learning approach implemented for Grade Six students at St. Benedict’s College is a practical embodiment of these aspirations. He commended the school for its forward-thinking initiatives and stressed the importance of preparing students for a rapidly evolving world.

He further extended his gratitude to the administration and teachers for embracing these reforms with dedication. He noted that their role in nurturing the next generation is pivotal, and this centre is a testament to their commitment to excellence. He praised their efforts in creating a supportive and stimulating learning environment that fosters innovation and creativity.

Rather than engaging with these technologies in isolation, the college has innovatively integrated them into problem-solving activities. For example, students learn to program robots for waste management projects, where they use them to collect and sort rubbish. They use 3D design to model bones in the body and print prototypes with a 3D printer. Drone technology is embedded in solving issues in coconut cultivation, such as counting coconuts, estimating yield, or researching insects harmful to the trees. Other activities include using drones for environmental monitoring and deploying robots in agricultural projects to enhance efficiency and sustainability.

These practical applications ensure students develop the skills required to thrive in the 21st century, such as creative thinking, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication. By integrating these technologies into the curriculum, St. Benedict’s College ensures that every student has the opportunity to explore and innovate.