3Mgives Awards Play Africa $49,963 USD to Fund STEM Education Initiatives

3M awarded Play Africa with a $49,963 USD grant to help advance science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) learning in primary school children in South Africa, as part of the organisation’s commitment to investing in STEM engagement around the world.

Continuing to invest in STEM is an ongoing priority for 3M, through partnering with schools, universities and other community organisations around the globe to ensure students and teachers have the tools, resources and knowledge they need to succeed in STEM.

“3M has a longstanding commitment to education and developing tomorrow’s workforce through strategic investments in STEM and skilled trades. We recognise the growing economic disparity gap in education, especially STEM for students around the world,” said Robert Nichols, MD of 3M Middle East Africa. “We look forward to see the results of this partnership.”

Together with 3M, Play Africa’s new “I’m a Scientist” programme is a new, 12-month educational enrichment programme that aims to promote equitable outcomes in STEM education and unlock new pathways to STEM careers. The grant will encourage the development of partnerships aimed at broadening participation in STEM, in alignment with the goals of 3Mgives’ Education strategy.

“Promoting equity in science and STEM in South Africa means changing mind-sets, fighting racial and gender biases, and challenging stereotypes that limit children’s professional goals. Science engagement and outreach programmes – like Play Africa’s ‘I’m a Scientist’ programme – will unlock new possibilities for children traditionally excluded from, and under-represented in, STEM fields,” said Gretchen Wilson-Prangley, Play Africa Founder & CEO.

As Play Africa’s flagship STEM programme, ‘I’m a Scientist’ brings the excitement of STEM to South African children of different backgrounds, ages and abilities – showing that every child can become a scientist!

Through hands-on learning exhibits and facilitated activities, I’m a Scientist aims to inspire a new generation of innovators, inventors and makers and create a more diverse future workforce. This programme is scheduled to begin officially on September 1. Every year, 3M awards educational grants globally through its 3Mgives, part of the organisation’s support for STEM engagement.