By Gazette Staff
February 26th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
A national research study done by Samsung Canada suggests many Canadians believe students aren’t being adequately prepared for STEM, (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) a field widely seen as resilient and essential for the future.
The gap: Only 40% of Canadians believe schools are preparing youth effectively for STEM careers.
Just 6% say schools are doing a very effective job.
Yet 98% say STEM skills are essential for young Canadians.
Key takeaways:
- Strong national consensus: 81% of parents and educators say STEM education is “very important,” with consistently high support across regions (84% in Quebec, 83% in Alberta, 79% in Ontario).
- STEM as opportunity: Canadians link STEM careers to high income potential (49%), social impact (41%), innovation (39%), and solving global challenges (38%).
- Expectation vs. reality: 72% believe schools should lead STEM preparation, but 63% say classrooms lack the resources, tools, and hands-on learning needed.The Halton District School Board has STEM programs in three of its high schools.
STEM students taking part in a competition.
The Halton District School Board (HDSB) offers a specialized I-STEM program at three secondary schools: Burlington, Oakville and Milton. It is an interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students for post-secondary STEM fields.
All HDSB secondary schools follow the Ontario curriculum which offers a wide breadth of STEM courses, including Advanced Placement (AP) level courses at some schools. Various clubs and teams across schools are also offered for students with a keen interest in STEM.
Technological education is a particular focus for schools across Halton region, offered at elementary schools into secondary schools. Students can explore skilled trades and technology courses including 2D character animation, architectural technology and design, auto collision repair and painting, auto service technology, baking and more.
Unique to the HDSB, they are hosting their 34th annual Halton Skills Competition, providing elementary and secondary students with hands-on opportunities to showcase their skills in technological and skilled trades challenges. In the past our secondary students have gone on to compete in tech competitions at a national level.
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