Regional Education Program
Regional and remote students are vastly underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Only 14% of people with a university level STEM qualification hail from regional or remote areas. The statistics are even lower for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, with only 0.5% holding a STEM degree compared to 5.2% of the rest of the population*.
About the program
Our Regional Education Program is a transformative outreach initiative, sharing scientific knowledge across Queensland. It is QIMR Berghofer's commitment engaging the next generation of scientists in regional and remote Queensland.
This is more than a program - it's a dedicated effort address inequities in science education and health awareness. Through our work with regional, rural and remote high school student, we aim to bring cutting-edge science and medical research directly to communities that may face barriers to accessing such opportunities.
* Office of the Chief Scientist. (2020). Australia’s STEM workforce. Australian Government.
Each school program runs for approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. In a carefully curated workshop, the program offers an immersive experience where students interact with leading scientists during school hours. This approach inspires, guides, and nurtures aspirations though four distinct activities:
- Motivational Yarning circle: A small group storytelling session that fosters sharing, knowledge growth, strengthening relationships and a passion for science. This activity is inspired by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural practices and emphasises the importance of collaboration.
- The Journey of the Scientist: An opportunity for students to learn the pathways to become a scientist, though stories from researchers at different career stages, highlighting their work's relevance to the local community.
- Hands on Science: Engaging experiments and activities, such as microscopy, led by scientists.
- Catch up with the Scientists: A one-on-one interaction session where students connect directly with scientists.
Every child, every school, and every community are unique, so we customise these activities to the needs of each visit.
In 2024, the Regional Education Program visited the following locations:
- Thursday Island, Bamaga and Cairns;
- Rockhampton and surrounds;
- Mt Isa and Cloncurry;
- Townsville and surrounds;
- Toowoomba, Chinchilla and Roma.
We look forward to announcing our intended 2025 program soon.
Program rationale
The Regional Education Program can provide students with meaningful experiences in the world of science, raise awareness of medical research careers, and create lasting impact. Together, we are not just addressing inequities but building bridges to a brighter, more inclusive future.
Aligned with our mission to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities, this program focuses on regional and remote areas where access to similar initiatives is limited.
We're committed to breaking barriers and ensuring that every student, regardless of their geographical location, has the opportunity to explore the exciting future of health science and medical research.
The program also supports the Queensland Government's STEM strategy. By fostering discussions on critical health topics, we contribute to scientific literacy and encourage students in remote areas to actively participate in STEM subjects.
Program Impact
We strive to leave a lasting impact by inspiring students to consider careers in Medical Research. Our long-term goal is to increase representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in the Medical Research field and to foster enduring connections with schools and communities across all of Queensland.
Interested in this program?
We are always open to more initiatives, so don’t hesitate to contact us if your location is not covered in these areas.
Dr Manuel Serrano Santos (Wed-Fri)
T: (07) 3845 3919
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