inspires future innovators

Debmarine Namibia’s “I Love STEAM” initiative is igniting the imaginations of young learners, providing them with the tools and skills to become the innovators of tomorrow. Launched in partnership with Mindsinaction and Bold Creations, this transformative programme aims to expose primary school students to an integrated approach to science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM), equipping them with essential 21st-century skills.

The programme’s pilot phase, which began in July 2023, saw 117 students from five primary schools in the Khomas Region participating in eight-week modules designed to foster critical thinking, creativity and hands-on problem-solving. These students, from schools like Olof Palme Primary School, Keystone Elementary School, Namutoni Primary School, St Pauls College and Hermann Gmeiner Primary School, took part in interactive lessons that integrated science, technology, engineering and the arts.

Learning in action

Through the “I Love STEAM” programme, students embarked on an exciting journey of discovery. The curriculum was designed to be both educational and engaging, providing learners with a comprehensive foundation in core scientifc concepts and practical technical skills.

  • Science: Students explored basic scientific principles through hands-on experiments in physics and chemistry. They investigated laws like Ohm’s Law, Newton’s laws of motion and circuit theory, learning by doing and reinforcing abstract concepts through practical application.

  • Technology and engineering: Robotics and coding were central to the technology module. Learners built robots equipped with sensors and motors to navigate challenges, while coding exercises allowed them to create digital stories, games and animations by using platforms like Kitten Coding, which introduces them to the basics of programming.

  • Arts: In collaboration with Bold Creations, the arts component encouraged creativity and self-expression. Students explored colour theory while engaging in projects like painting, drawing and string art, offering a balance of technical and artistic learning.

Beyond the classroom

In addition to the core programme, “I Love STEAM” has expanded its reach beyond the Khomas Region, with regional bootcamps in the Hardap, //Karas and Omaheke regions. These bootcamps have allowed the programme to impact over 500 students, reaching schools such as DD Guibeb Primary School, Danie Joubert Combined School and Eaglesvale Private School.

The initiative also extended to the Kavango East and Zambezi regions, where 120 learners from schools like Divundu Combined School and Impalila Combined School participated in earlier bootcamps, further spreading the reach of this innovative learning experience.

Supporting schools and engaging the public

To enhance the lasting impact of the programme, each participating school was awarded a N$20,000 science voucher, which was used to upgrade their science laboratories and resources. This investment ensures that students have access to better facilities for ongoing scientifc experimentation and learning.

Debmarine Namibia also hosted shopping mall activations at locations like Wernhill, Grove, Black Chain and Okahandja, providing hands-on STEAM activities to primary school students. These public events allowed families and the wider community to witness the transformative power of the “I Love STEAM” initiative firsthand.