Providing early exposure to STEAM knowledge

Mindsinaction is a space where students explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) skills through exciting hands-on activities. The movement was established in 2018 by two science fair partners, Ndaudika Mulundileni and Andreas Leonard. They offer modules in clusters covering skills such as robotics, coding, electronics, 3D printing, arts and fun science experiments (Industry 4.0 Skills). The idea is to expose students to STEAM educational activities to instigate interest in 21st-century skills and inspire them to become makers of future technologies at an early stage.Each of the modules takes eight weeks to complete and is affordable. The modules provide continuity in learning. For example, a student who has completed module 1 (Lego Robotics) and has learned the basics such as how motors and sensors work, and how to write a computer program to control hardware to accomplish a specified task, can proceed to module 2, which is Coding with Kitten, to cement their coding skills.In module 3 (Electronics with the Arduino microcontroller), students are introduced to electronics and line coding using the Arduino IDE. Other modules that follow cover Computer Aided Design and 3D Printing.In line with their vision – “To produce a generation of African makers with the ability to identify problems in their communities and offer innovative solutions” – Mindsinaction also offers ICT and engineering services, such as app development, and machine fabrication. STEAM knowledge on the go Mindsinaction provides early exposure to STEAM knowledge, which is in high demand in various industries, including agriculture, healthcare and construction.Early exposure to STEAM educational activities encourages students to think critically, solve problems, and apply analytical skills to real-world situations. The interdisciplinary nature of STEAM fosters a deeper understanding of complex concepts, preparing students to tackle challenges effectively.By incorporating the arts into traditional STEM subjects, STEAM promotes creativity and imagination. Furthermore, this has been shown to attract more female students, bridging the gender gap and promoting inclusivity in these disciplines.STEAM education encourages students to embrace change, learn continuously, and adapt to new technologies and challenges. STEAM projects often require teamwork and cooperation, helping students develop strong communication and collaboration skills.By nurturing a passion for learning and exploration, the Mindsinaction STEAM programme instils a love for knowledge that extends beyond the classroom, encouraging students to pursue further education and seek continuous self-improvement.AI as a toolMindsinaction sees Artificial Intelligence as a tool that can be applied in various industries, especially in a growing economy like Namibia.However, they believe to fully utilise the AI potential, Namibia should invest in STEAM education so that the youth are skilled to create new solutions using AI technologies while not falling victim to its dark side.As AI continues to advance, they envision a future where Mindsinaction programmes are even more adaptive, interactive and inclusive, to foster continuous growth and prepare the African youth with the skills necessary to contribute to better AI solutions, good enough to help solve some of the world’s complex challenges.

Providing early exposure to STEAM knowledge

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-18

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Providing early exposure to STEAM knowledge

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-18

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