Medellín, A Case of Self-STEAM (Esteem)

Abstract

Medellín, a case of self-steam (Esteem), is a short journey through the last five years in which several projects have impacted the quality of education, the vocational orientation for STEAM careers, but mostly the mindset of students in the city. Transformations in mobility, social inclusion, infrastructure and security have been key factors, but as it relates to students’ belief in their ability to solve real problems in their neighborhoods, the STEAM projects have provided the framework and the intellectual adventure for students. This chapter describes the projects and their impact. One goal is to highlight how the STEAM model, within the context of Medellín’s city development plan, has yielded results. A second goal is to spotlight the urgency to be more focused on talent development. This topic must be the core of the public agenda, to increase the connection between education and economic growth. During the five years, STEAM has been the right path to strengthen the bond. This path should continue, increasing talent in the city and creating the new face of the Medellín to the world. The Ruta N Innovation Agency and allies started the movement, with programs now adopted by the city’s Secretary of Education, private schools and universities who believe in the importance of a knowledge economy for Medellín in the XXI century.