News
Attracting young people to science and agriculture
Bayer CropScience is helping to bring STEM (Science Technology Engineer and Math) education kits to students in rural and underserved areas. Throughout the month of October 4-H, with the support of Bayer is working to inspire kids across the country to take an interest in STEM for the annual 4-H National Youth Science Day.
Darren Wallis, VP of communications for Bayer CropScience North America, says they’re helping students understand that science matters and they’re trying to spark their interest early. “And we can have a conversation with them about the importance and the exciting things going on in science and agriculture,” he says. “We have just as much opportunity as our colleagues in medicine, pharmaceutical, or other areas to really attract the best and brightest.”
During a recent event at the University of Arkansas, 200 students from grades 6 to 12 competed in challenges with Game Changer kits, designed by Google and the West Virginia Extension Service. The kits use computer science to create games, solve problems, and engage students on topics they are passionate about. Wallis tells Brownfield the goal was to make science fun. “We had these computer science fundamentals, physical activity, and puzzles,” he says. “Really this was all about engaging young people in concepts and problem-solving skills – and to really have fun around computer science.”
A recent Science Matters survey showed that only 19 percent of high school students said they are likely to consider a career in agriculture. And only 36 percent of surveyed students reported being familiar with ag career choices outside of working on a farm.
Bayer’s support of the National 4-H Council through the Science Matters initiative extends beyond National Youth Science Day. Through the initiative, Bayer and 4-H have committed to equipping at least 250,000 students from rural, urban, and suburban communities with the tools needed to enhance their understanding of science.
AUDIO: Darren Wallis, Bayer CropScience
I think that students really need to be more exposed to what the options are after and outside of school. I fell like unless a student is told about something then the don’t motivate themselves enough to find more about the topic.