Business View Oceania - January 2025

of the future, Lithgow is reimagining its educational framework to prioritize STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and STEAM (adding arts to STEM) disciplines. Lithgow Council has convened a coalition of local primary and secondary school principals from both public and private sectors to address disparities in educational resources and outcomes. With $1.5 million in funding secured for a STEAM initiative, the town is developing a curriculum tailored to the needs of its schools. This program, in collaboration with WSU and Charles Sturt University, aims to provide equal access to advanced learning tools such as 3D printers and drones, even for the smallest schools like Cullen Bullen Public School, which serves fewer than 20 students. One innovative aspect of this initiative is a mobile education program, which will bring state-of-the-art facilities and resources to schools across the region. By doing so, Lithgow seeks to inspire students and their families with the possibilities of STEM careers while also addressing the need for local talent in emerging industries. Lithgow High School, often regarded as the regional leader in STEM and STEAM education, plays a pivotal role in these efforts. 66 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 01

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx