LAHORE: Pakistan’s first female space traveller Namira Salim has urged the government to introduce a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education system in the country.Â
Talking to the media she said that the system should be introduced especially for schoolgirls so that they can be a part of the international community in various fields in the future.
Namira said she was proud to be the first Pakistani female space traveller and her adventurous journey will not stop here she will be eyeing bigger goals now.

Namira was also the first Pakistani woman who erected the national flag at both the North Pole and South Pole. She said she waited for 17 years to go to space and all this time her hopes were high and she was determined to achieve her goal.
What is a STEM system?
STEM education is a teaching approach that combines science, technology, engineering, and math. STEAM, also incorporates the arts, which have the “ability to expand the limits of STEM education and application,” according to Stem Education Guide, STEAM is designed to encourage discussions and problem-solving among students, developing both practical skills and appreciation for collaborations.
Rather than teach the five disciplines as separate and discrete subjects, STEAM integrates them into a cohesive learning paradigm based on real-world applications.Â
Elementary school: STEAM education focuses on the introductory level STEAM courses, as well as awareness of the STEAM fields and occupations. This initial step provides standards-based structured inquiry-based and real-world problem-based learning, connecting all four of the STEAM subjects. The goal is to pique students’ interest into them wanting to pursue the courses, not because they have to. There is also an emphasis placed on bridging in-school and out-of-school STEAM learning opportunities.Â
Middle school: At this stage, the courses become more rigorous and challenging. Student awareness of STEAM fields and occupations is still pursued, as well as the academic requirements of such fields. Student exploration of STEAM-related careers begins at this level, particularly for underrepresented populations.Â
High school: The program of study focuses on the application of the subjects in a challenging and rigorous manner. Courses and pathways are now available in STEAM fields and occupations, as well as preparation for post-secondary education and employment. More emphasis is placed on bridging in-school and out-of-school STEAM opportunities.