On March 25, according to information from Hanoi National University of Education, UNESCO and the Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) and related units officially launched a new phase of the "We Can" initiative. This is an initiative to promote inclusive learning opportunities and strengthen STEAM education (science, technology, engineering, arts and design, mathematics) for female students, especially in ethnic minority areas and difficult areas of Vietnam. At the same time, it marks an important turning point of the project after the impressive results from the previous phase.
The event was attended by about 1,000 delegates, marking an important turning point to promote inclusive learning opportunities after impressive results from previous stages.
In the past period, the project has directly approached more than 8,000 students and their families in Cao Bang, Vinh Long and Khanh Hoa.
The initiative not only improves the capacity of more than 650 teachers but also mobilizes 300 youth leaders to participate in promoting gender equality, making an important contribution to narrowing the gender gap in the national education system.
Going further in phase 3 (2026 - 2029) with the theme "We can for a connected future: from learning to pioneering through STEAM education", the project aims to support 6,000 students, prioritizing 3,000 female students and learners from ethnic minority communities.
Currently, in Vietnam, women working in science, technology, engineering and mathematics are still few, only about 37 people out of 100. Therefore, the project focuses on developing creative thinking, problem-solving skills and confidence for them to pursue innovative industries.
The focus of activities is to improve educational management capacity, expand learning experience and connect schools with businesses and female technology leaders.
Committing to accompanying gender equality, UNESCO Chief Representative in Vietnam, Mr. Jonathan Wallace Baker, affirmed that promoting gender equality through education is the organization's core priority.
When girls are given the opportunity to practically develop leadership skills and abilities through STEAM education, they will maximize their potential and make strong contributions to the socio-economy.
UNESCO is proud to accompany Vietnam in creating an equal learning environment where students have the right to be creative and lead the future.
Mr. Vu Minh Duc - Director of the Department of Teachers and Educational Administrators (Ministry of Education and Training) highly appreciated the project's results in improving teachers' capacity and promoting gender sensitivity.
In order to implement the National Strategy on Gender Equality 2021-2030, Mr. Vu Minh Duc hopes that these contents will soon be officially taught at teacher training institutions to ensure sustainability.
The "We Can" phase 3 project not only contributes to the national priority of improving the quality of innovative human resources, but also affirms Vietnam's commitment to sustainable development goals.
Through gender-converted STEAM education, the project expects to create a generation of brave female students, ready to be pioneers in the digital age and global connection.
