ISLAMABAD: Participants of a workshop called science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education important in sustainable growth of the country and also a critical component to win the future.

“STEM education creates critical thinkers, increases science literacy and enables generation of innovators,” said US-based certified Scrum trainer and Agile coach, Cathy Simpson, at the Startup Founder Workshop organised by the Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South (Comsats) at its secretariat in Islamabad.

A statement issued by Comsats on Sunday said American Institute of Pakistan Studies and the Inter University Consortium for the Promotion of Social Sciences Arts and Humanities collaborated with Comsats for the workshop. It trained 50 women entrepreneurs on ‘How to build successful team and businesses’.

The workshop covered various aspects of Scrum training and Agile manifesto along with techniques for improving team efficiency and management.

Cathy Simpson discussed contemporary market trends and shared with the trainees some key attributes of a successful start-up. She highlighted the need for technical knowledge and soft skills development for the success of entrepreneurial ventures.

According to the trainer, teamwork, sound leadership, trust, effective planning and timely testing are essentials for better product development.

Elucidating on various aspects of agile methodology in this connection, Ms Simpson stressed targeted customers, outcome efficiency and sustainable value deliverance important for its adaptation.

She also stressed the need to promote entrepreneurial culture and said STEM education is important for enabling the culture of innovation, inculcating analytical thinking and increasing science literacy.

Comsats Executive Director Dr S. M. Junaid Zaidi said in the times of coronavirus pandemic, Comsats reiterates its resolve to strengthen research and development capacities of its 27-member states to help combat emerging global challenges through peaceful use of science.

Published in Dawn, April 6th, 2020