Nanan STEM Academy Showcases Student Innovation at Annual Fair

The Nanan STEM Academy hosted its fourth consecutive student fair at the Saskatchewan Science Centre, showcasing a diverse range of student skills in coding, robotics, video game design, 3D printing, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy. Co-founder Shaun Nanan emphasized the importance of this event in nurturing essential skills that students can apply in today’s technology-driven world.

During the fair, which took place on October 7, 2023, Nanan highlighted how such events allow students to gain confidence while engaging in hands-on learning experiences. “They learn math, creativity, logical sequencing, troubleshooting, coding, resiliency, and fortitude,” he noted. The fair serves as a platform for students to present their projects to the public, marking a significant step in their personal and academic development.

Bridging Technical and Non-Technical Skills

Nanan aims to go beyond technical skill development, integrating essential non-technical skills into the curriculum. He described leadership, collaboration, communication, cultural competency, and resilience as vital components of entrepreneurship. “The best way to deliver this is through interactive STEM activities,” he stated. “Students gain collaboration skills while working in groups, which is crucial for their future.”

Many students, who may have initially been shy, showed notable progress in their confidence levels, demonstrating their projects effectively. The event provided an opportunity for them to showcase their hard work and creativity, reflecting Nanan’s vision for comprehensive education.

Among the attendees was Abdurahman Honey, a student support assistant with Truly Alive, who traveled from Saskatoon to inspire younger students in robotics. “It’s something fun that the kids have been doing,” he said. Honey hopes that this introduction to robotics will ignite a passion among students, leading to more significant applications and software development in the future. “Today is a learning stepping stone for them,” he added.

Community Support and Future Initiatives

The Nanan STEM Academy expressed gratitude for the extensive resources that have made such events possible. Nanan mentioned that similar STEM events occur every six months throughout Saskatchewan, specifically in October and April. This consistent commitment to STEM education aims to prepare students for the evolving demands of the digital age.

As the Nanan STEM Academy continues to foster innovation and creativity among students, the annual fair remains a vital component of their educational strategy. By bridging technical and non-technical skills, they are equipping the next generation with the tools necessary for success in an increasingly complex world.