New STEM foundation launched at Expand Space to inspire youth in underserved communities

A groundbreaking STEM Foundation aimed at empowering youth from underserved communities was launched during the inaugural Expand Space 2024 programme. Held at the Begonia Ballroom in the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, the event brought together young innovators, industry leaders, and visionaries to explore the transformative possibilities of Deep Tech.

The STEM Foundation plans to provide hands-on learning opportunities for 100 children annually, offering exposure to fields such as coding, life sciences, AI, robotics, and space technology. This initiative seeks to bridge the gap between passion and profession, fostering innovation and preparing the next generation for a tech-driven future.

Prominent speakers and partnerships highlight Expand Space

The event, organised by Space Faculty, was graced by Dr Tan See Leng, Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Trade and Industry. It aimed to inspire young people under 35 to turn their passions into careers in transformative fields like AI, robotics, and space exploration.

“Expand Space connects young innovators with purpose, possibilities, and pioneers in deep tech,” said Lynette Tan, CEO of Space Faculty. “This ensures Singapore builds a talent pool that’s second to none, driving the country’s future economy.”

The programme featured significant partnerships, including a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Ngee Ann Polytechnic (NP) to advance knowledge in Deep Tech, Robotics, and Space. Following a successful collaboration on the World Robot Olympiad National Finals in September 2024, NP will also support the International Finals in Singapore in 2025.

Space Faculty announced another collaboration with Break the Code, a non-profit initiative led by students from Nanyang Technological University. The campaign aims to encourage girls aged 13 to 16 to explore careers in technology and reduce the gender gap in Singapore’s tech sector.

Future-ready careers and cutting-edge experiences

Expand Space featured a dynamic range of activities, including a “25 Future Careers Showcase” that introduced roles such as Cybergeneticists, Metaverse Architects, and Nuclear Fusion Scientists. Participants engaged in interactive zones focusing on AI, virtual reality, robotics, and space exploration, with hands-on experiences like robotics playgrounds, nano-satellite demonstrations, and VR simulations of the International Space Station.

The event also offered a Start-Up Pitching Zone called “The Next Big Thing,” where aspiring technopreneurs presented their ideas to industry experts and investors. Winners received mentorship and support to bring their innovations to life.

Additionally, awards were presented to winners of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Innovation Quest and the 17th International Space Challenge (ISC). Local educators and students were also celebrated, including River Valley High School’s Ms Lau Shi Yun, who was recognised as the best mentor, and the school’s Racoons team, which earned distinction in the starter category.

Panel sessions provided valuable insights, featuring industry leaders such as Cindy Khoo, Managing Director of Enterprise Singapore; Craig McGilvray, Regional Director of Lockheed Martin Space; and Koh Chong Hin, Vice President of Xylem Water Solutions. Discussions covered essential skills for thriving in tech-driven industries and strategies for shaping a sustainable future economy.

The “Reach for the Moon, Land on the Stars” panel showcased inspiring talks from François Dubrulle, CEO of Qosmosys; Marvyn Lim Seng, Executive Director of IN.Genius; and Anna Sabate, Technical Head of Space Faculty. Italian astronaut Roberto Vittori also shared his journey through three missions to the International Space Station, highlighting breakthroughs in cosmic research and space exploration.

Ms Tan concluded, “Expand Space isn’t just another programme. It’s a Deep Tech playground where young minds can explore, experiment, and imagine the future without fear of failure. Singapore isn’t just participating in the global Deep Tech revolution – we are leading it. Each young person in this nation has the opportunity to reach for the stars and land on the moon.”