The UNESCO International Institute for STEM Education (IISTEM), China’s first Category 1 UNESCO institute, is set to open in Shanghai’s Xuhui district. This significant development reflects China’s commitment to modernizing education and contributing to the concept of a global community with a shared future.
Announced during the 42nd Session of the UNESCO General Conference in Paris, France, the establishment of IISTEM marks a milestone as the first UNESCO Category 1 center in China and the 10th globally. Its establishment outside Europe and the Americas signifies a notable expansion of UNESCO’s educational initiatives. The institute aims to promote inclusive, fair, and high-quality education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) for individuals from early childhood through adulthood.
This initiative addresses the urgent educational needs of developing countries, particularly in Africa, aligning with the vision of building a global community. It supports UNESCO’s leadership in facilitating global exchanges and cooperation in STEM education, offering substantial support for STEM education development in developing countries.
Stefania Giannini, UNESCO’s assistant director-general for education, emphasized through a video link that the institute would play a crucial role in contributing to UNESCO’s leadership and serving as a guardian and coordinator for global education goals.
Shahbaz Khan, from the UNESCO Multisectoral Regional Office for East Asia, highlighted the institute’s role as an international exchange hub, providing a repository of state-of-the-art resources and best practices in STEM education.
Ning Bo, a professor at Shanghai Normal University and project manager at the UNESCO teacher education center, pointed out that the STEM education center in Shanghai would assist Chinese universities in nurturing STEM talents. This is particularly relevant given the challenges faced by Chinese students in pursuing STEM majors in the US due to visa restrictions. The institute is poised to help China share its educational experiences and emerge as a leader in global STEM education, addressing technological challenges and fostering innovation.
Zhou Yaming, director of the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission, noted that the institute’s main structural work in Xuhui district has been completed. The final building will feature diverse functions, advanced security systems, energy-saving measures, and a modern technological atmosphere. Shanghai, under the guidance of UNESCO and local government, is committed to advancing the construction and supporting facilities for the site.
The establishment of IISTEM in Shanghai, a city renowned for its educational and scientific resources, represents a significant step in enhancing global STEM education. It highlights Shanghai’s commitment to building a comprehensive “STEM plus” curriculum in basic education and solidifying its presence in science education. This initiative promises to bring new opportunities and insights to the field of STEM education, benefiting learners and educators worldwide.
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