The Swedish government has presented an important STEM strategy aimed at securing the country’s future in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
The proposal includes investments at all levels—from preschool to higher education—to ensure that Sweden remains competitive and innovative. Read the full proposal here.
Two key challenges highlight the urgency of this initiative:
- Declining PISA results in mathematics and science, showing weaker foundational knowledge.
- Decreasing enrollment in science and technology programs at the high school level, limiting the future supply of engineers, researchers, and technical experts.
The only way to reverse this trend is by increasing interest in STEM subjects—and that starts early. A child’s curiosity about science and technology is often shaped by their family, culture, and school environment.
Parents, teachers, and society as a whole play a role in fostering (or discouraging) curiosity and confidence in these fields.
- The way we talk about math and science at home matters. A single discouraging comment can make a child believe they are “not a math person.”
- Schools must provide inspiring teaching and high standards to nurture and retain interest in STEM.
- Role models, hands-on learning, and engaging experiences help build a culture where STEM is exciting and accessible to all.
Investing in education, culture, and teaching quality is not just about creating more scientists and engineers—it’s about equipping future generations with the skills to solve global challenges and drive Sweden forward.
Universities have a key role to play in this transformation. Some concrete actions we can take include:
- Stronger outreach programs – Engaging younger students through science camps, school collaborations, and mentorship programs.
- More diverse role models – Encouraging women and underrepresented groups in STEM by highlighting diverse success stories.
- Innovative teaching methods – Making STEM education more interactive, interdisciplinary, and connected to real-world challenges.
- Lifelong learning opportunities – Ensuring that professionals can update their skills to meet the evolving demands of the job market.
A key initiative in the government’s strategy is the creation of a STEM delegation, which will work to strengthen collaboration between schools, universities, authorities, and industry.
One of its specific goals is to increase the number of women pursuing STEM degrees by identifying and supporting activities that attract and retain female students in these fields.
This is an important step in ensuring diversity and inclusivity in science and technology, and universities have an important role to play in supporting these efforts.
What more can we do at KTH and at universities in general to strengthen STEM education and inspire future generations?
This is a challenge that requires collaboration across academia, industry, and society. By working together, we can ensure that Sweden remains at the forefront of innovation and scientific excellence.