Future creators competition aims to boost STEM interest among students in Finland and Estonia

In recent years, companies have observed a decline in the foundational skills in science and mathematics among young individuals entering the workforce. To address this issue, a new competition called “Future Creators” has been introduced to spark interest in STEM subjects. Targeting secondary school students, the competition invites participants to propose solutions to anticipated challenges posed by companies, including issues related to climate change and energy transitions.

The competition is organized by several industry associations, in collaboration with their Estonian counterparts. National finals are scheduled for November, while the ultimate contest will take place in January in Tallinn. Interestingly, while interest in these fields has diminished in Finland, Estonian youth demonstrate a greater enthusiasm for natural sciences, a trend reflected in the PISA results from both countries.

Teachers report that the competition has heightened student interest in science subjects. The tasks presented were challenging yet engaging, leading to collaborative problem-solving among students. Nine companies and nine participating schools from different regions of Finland are taking part.

Students from Pruukin Yhtenäiskoulu in Seinäjoki and Lohtajan Koulu in Kokkola tackled real-world challenges, such as biodiversity enhancement in industrial areas. One group proposed the creation of a green space with a pond to boost local biodiversity, while another considered the use of bioindicators for assessing pollution, suggesting the planting of specific weeds, which could signal environmental contamination due to pesticides.

In preparation for the competition, students submitted written proposals and videos for preliminary evaluations. The participants expressed excitement about collaborating and learning throughout the process, emphasizing that teamwork was a highlight of their experience. The industry representatives underscored the importance of nurturing enthusiasm for science, particularly when considering future job opportunities in STEM fields.