STEM students showcase skills at the Governor’s Consultative Meeting

Lona-Vellah Tsurumi (middle) explaining the hybrid Topology (NBC News: Solomon Sumb)

Students enrolled in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics [STEM] education are beginning to gain a deeper understanding of how science, engineering, mathematics, and technology—including computer systems—work.

At today's governors' consultative meeting in Port Moresby, selected students from two of the six National Schools of Excellence—the Port Moresby National School of Excellence and Sogeri National School of Excellence—set up booths to showcase what they have been learning in school.

The students were actively engaged in explaining their hands-on learning experiences, with a focus on scientific principles, engineering design, and technology applications.

One such student, Lona-Vellah Tsurumi, a Grade 11 STEM student at Port Moresby National School of Excellence, was at her booth explaining the concept of hybrid topology.

Ms. Tsurumi described how computers and network components are connected within a network, highlighting the flow of data between devices and their communication. She explained that there are several types of network topologies.

"In Bus Topology, all devices are connected to a single central cable. In Star Topology, all devices are connected to a central hub or switch, while in Ring Topology, devices are connected in a circular chain, with data traveling in one direction", Ms Tsurumi said.

The students highlighted that STEM education helps students build real problem-solving skills. They are thankful that this approach will keep preparing future generations with the knowledge and skills needed to move the country forward in the 21st century.

At the Governor’s Conference, this topic was a key focus for the governors. They were encouraged to identify top students from their provinces and support them in pursuing studies abroad at some of the world's top universities.

Education Minister Lucas Dekena said, “Fifty years on, we must see improvements in our education system, and it must be delivered through a collaborative effort.”