ON the heels of the official launch of the first two instalments of her STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education children’s book series, Science in the Sun and A Girl’s Guide to STEM, Dianne Plummer, STEM literacy advocate, has garnered high praise and an official endorsement from Minister of Education and Youth Fayval Williams. The books are in line with national objectives championed by the ministry, geared towards empowering Jamaican youth in STEM education.

According to Plummer,
A Girl’s Guide to STEM is an invitation to young girls aged seven to 14 to embark on an exciting journey through the realms of STEM. It’s a celebration of diversity, equity, and inclusion, featuring remarkable women of colour and Caribbean women who have made significant contributions to their respective fields.
Science in the Sun serves as a tool to introduce young minds aged three to seven to the wonders of science through storytelling that combines education and entertainment featuring exciting and interactive experiments children and parents can engage in together.

Plummer’s books represent a crucial step towards fostering STEM literacy among the nation’s youth, aligning seamlessly with Jamaica’s national education objectives. Speaking on the importance of these initiatives, Williams emphasised that STEM literacy is pivotal for Jamaica’s future prosperity.

“Dianne Plummer’s series provides a necessary resource to ignite curiosity and passion for science among our youth, paving the way for a brighter and more innovative Jamaica,” she said. “In today’s digital age, prioritising the advancements of science and technology is one of the main ways that we can make Jamaica the place to live, do business, and raise our families. We must make our students aware of the full breadth of STEM career paths available to them, particularly all of the non-traditional careers and applications that exist. Tapping into the interest and excitement of children from a young age is critical to igniting that consistent spark. It is now a time in Jamaica where we must acknowledge that STEM is essential for national development.”

Williams noted that her office is committed to ensuring that all of the nation’s youth get exposure to STEM, and that they are well on the way to establishing STEM & STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) schools across the country, spanning each county. This is in an effort to advance STEM education, noting its critical role in nurturing the next generation of innovators, problem solvers and leaders.

As a woman in STEM, Plummer has experienced many triumphs and challenges on her path towards success.

“I have encountered a multifaceted career path that exemplifies my mantra that life is not linear. Each role I have filled, each challenge, shaped me into the STEM advocate I am today, driven by a singular mission: to make STEM an exhilarating adventure for children, a gateway to curiosity and discovery,” Plummer shared. “My vision extends far beyond the confines of these books. I envision a future where STEM education flourishes in Jamaica, a future where every child, regardless of background or circumstance, has access to quality education and opportunities to pursue their passions. Through initiatives like outreach programmes to marginalised communities and partnerships with schools and educators, I hope to inspire a new generation of STEM enthusiasts, innovators, and problem-solvers. By fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking skills, we can empower our youth to shape a brighter, more inclusive future for all.”