Nanan STEM Academy Showcases Student Innovation at Annual Fair

Students at the Saskatchewan Science Centre recently displayed their talents in coding, robotics, video game design, 3D printing, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy during a student fair hosted by the Nanan STEM Academy. This marks the fourth consecutive year that co-founder Shaun Nanan has organized the event, creating a platform for young innovators to showcase their skills.

In a technologically advanced world, Nanan emphasizes the importance of harnessing these skills effectively. “They learn math, creativity, logical sequencing, troubleshooting, coding, and resilience,” he stated during the event. “They gain confidence while working on these video games.” Nanan believes that the fair goes beyond merely developing technical skills; it also fosters essential non-technical abilities.

Building Essential Skills Through Interactive Learning

Nanan highlights the significance of skills such as leadership, collaboration, communication, and cultural competency in the realm of entrepreneurship. “The best way to deliver this is through interactive STEM activities,” he explained. By engaging in group projects, students not only develop digital literacy but also improve their ability to work collaboratively.

Many students who may have initially felt shy have transformed into confident presenters, eager to showcase their projects to the public. Nanan’s initiative provides an opportunity for personal growth alongside technical education, preparing students for future challenges.

Abdurahman Honey, a student support assistant from Saskatoon, traveled to the event to help younger students explore the world of robotics. “It’s something fun that the kids have been doing, and I wanted to expose them to something related to robotics,” said Honey, a second-year student at the University of Saskatchewan. He expressed hope that this exposure would inspire students to cultivate their interests further, leading to more complex projects and software applications in the future. “Today is a learning stepping stone for them,” he added.

Commitment to Regular STEM Events

The Nanan STEM Academy expresses gratitude for the resources that have enabled them to provide such opportunities to students. Nanan pointed out that these STEM events take place biannually around Saskatchewan, specifically in the months of October and April. This consistent engagement allows students to continue developing their skills and confidence in a supportive environment.

As technology evolves, events like this fair play a crucial role in preparing the next generation for the demands of the future. The Nanan STEM Academy remains committed to nurturing talent and fostering innovation among young learners.