By Koviao Matuzee
For years, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) was viewed through a rigid lens, associated mainly with heavy textbooks, intimidating equations and laboratory walls. However, the National Commission for Research, Science and Technology (NCRST) is working to redefine that image through the Mr & Ms STEM competition, introduced in 2022.
The initiative aims to take STEM beyond classrooms and make it more visible, relatable and engaging for young Namibians.
According to the NCRST, the idea emerged following discussions between NCRST chief executive Anicia Peters and deputy head of mission at the delegation of the European Union to Namibia, Gosia Lachut, in 2022.
The commission said the competition was designed to combine academic excellence, innovation, leadership and youth empowerment in a fresh and engaging way.
“STEM has often been perceived as highly technical and inaccessible to many young people. By integrating elements of a pageant format, we aim to make STEM more relatable, exciting and visible to the broader public while celebrating the personalities, creativity and talents of students in these fields,” the Commission said.
NCRST said the competition allows participants to showcase not only scientific knowledge, but also communication skills, confidence, creativity and leadership abilities.
The winners will serve as STEM Ambassadors for one year under the guidance of the NCRST. During their term, they will participate in outreach programmes, motivational talks, workshops and awareness campaigns aimed at encouraging greater participation in STEM education.
They will also assist during national events such as the National Science Fair, National Science Quiz, STEM expos, the Namibia Mathematics Olympiad and World Space Science Week.
“A STEM ambassador should be willing to use their knowledge and influence to inspire others, particularly young learners, students and the general public.”
According to the NCRST, the programme will also provide mentorship opportunities, networking platforms and exposure to re- searchers, innovators and industry stake- holders to support the winners’ academic and professional growth.
The commission said the competition has intentionally been designed to equally celebrate both male and female participants through the Mr STEM and Ms STEM categories.
“We also want young men to see that STEM advocacy and leadership are equally important spaces for them to occupy.”
The NCRST hopes the competition will demonstrate that STEM is not limited to laboratories and classrooms, but is closely connected to creativity, innovation, leader- ship and problem-solving in everyday life.
“The initiative also seeks to break stereotypes around who can succeed in STEM and encourage broader participation from diverse communities across the country.”
The competition will take place in three rounds throughout 2026, beginning with the Project Pitch phase in June, followed by the Creativity Challenge and stakeholder engagement phase. The final showcase and crowning ceremony is scheduled for July 2026.
“Specific event dates and venues will be communicated through the NCRST’s official communication platforms.”
