Background: The national STEM strategy “Close to STEM” of the Norwegian government ended in 2020. Currently the government is lacking a plan and political foundation for a follow-up STEM strategy. Following an exploration of the Dutch / Danish 'Technology Pact' model (see related Taskforce), a preliminary evaluation of the strategy and current trends and developments show there is still a demand for joint efforts to maintain and increase recruitment to STEM studies and professions. In particular, there is a strong need to increase the gender balance in selected STEM fields, improve the performance in natural science topics among Norwegian school children and strengthen the collaboration between schools and professional STEM role models and industry.
Objectives: The objective of the taskforce is to resume and ignite the dialogue connected to a new Norwegian STEM initiative. Different models including the Dutch / Danish 'Technology Pact' (multi-stakeholder) apprach and the “STEM Ecosystem model” will be evaluated in the context of the taskforce.
Results: A network of key-stakeholders and other relevant partners will be established to explore different models for a new national STEM strategy. Roles and areas of responsibility for further actions will be assigned between partners. Deliverables will include a policy briefing and petition to the government.