Academicians from Near East University provided information to female students at Bülent Ecevit Anatolian High School about STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) through a presentation titled “STEM Careers Shaping the Future and Your Role” held on December 27, 2023. During the presentation, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayşe Arıkan Sarıoğlu from the Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Beyza Hatice Ulusoy from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Food Hygiene and Technology, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Gonca İnanç shared their knowledge and experiences on the future of STEM careers and the role of experts in this field.

 

The academicians aimed to encourage young generations to show interest in STEM fields, which enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity. They emphasized the importance and power of STEM in various aspects of life, including health, science, engineering, environment, and energy technologies.

Highlighting the significance of STEM careers, the academicians emphasized the potential of professionals in these fields to provide solutions to global challenges. The presentation also touched upon the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing that STEM experts are fundamental to sustainable development and explaining in detail how developments in this field impact public health.

Sharing examples and experiences from their respective fields, the academicians emphasized the importance of STEM experts in addressing societal and global issues. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayşe Arıkan Sarıoğlu explained how STEM professionals in the medical field contribute to public health through advancements in science and technology, urging young individuals to consider careers in this field to provide solutions to global challenges. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Beyza Hatice Ulusoy highlighted the critical importance of STEM careers in animal health and environmental sustainability, underscoring the role of veterinarians in ensuring food safety and combating zoonotic diseases.

Academicians addressed the female students who will take steps toward their professional careers in the future, emphasizing the importance of STEM fields and how pursuing careers in this area can contribute to positive changes globally. They reminded the students that successful STEM careers can empower women to be a part of these positive changes. The presentation underscored that STEM careers, in line with the fundamental principles of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, constitute the key to individual and societal well-being and sustainable development, highlighting the bright and hopeful future for young people in this field.