In Summary

  • The In2science mentor awards have recognised Swinburne students for their mentoring work
  • Selda Ekri presented with the ‘Impact Award’ for her work mentoring Year 9 students
  • In2Science awards recognise mentors in the fields of science, technology, engineering and maths

After two placement visits Swinburne In2science mentor Selda Ekri gained the respect of the Year 9 science students at Hume Central Secondary College. After three visits the students were asking their teacher when she would be in their class next.

Ms Ekri, along with four other Swinburne students, has been recognised by the 2016 In2science Awards, a celebration of the outstanding achievements in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) engagement through the In2science Peer Mentoring Program.

A Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) (Honours) student, Ms Ekri was presented with the ‘Impact Award’, given to the university mentor that made the greatest impact in engaging high school students.

 Selda Ekri with John Brumby

The Honourable Professor John Brumby, In2science Chairman, presented the awards to mentors from partner universities while speaking of the importance and challenges of STEM in Australia.

“We all know that we’ve got a huge continuing challenge in this area. More results have come out on maths achievement in Australia, and the reality is that this is an area where Australia is really challenged. We look at the countries around us in the world, Singapore and South Korea and Malaysia and now China, they are making big investments into STEM,” Professor Brumby said.

“Tonight is about celebrating the success of the last year. Outstanding engagement from all of the participants. I think it’s true to say that the In2science program is now stronger than ever.”

Swinburne students were also named finalists in several categories:

  • Nicholas Robinson (Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical) (Honours)) for the ‘Role Model Award’
  • Jaydene Pearson (Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) (Honours)) for the ‘Dedication Award’
  • Harry Bennett (Bachelor of Engineering (Robotics & Mechatronics) (Honours)/B. Computer Science) for the ‘Above & Beyond Award’
  • Jessie Clare (Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology)) for the ‘eMentoring Award’.

Sketch of the In2science awards

Through 2016, In2science has supported STEM education in secondary classrooms across 45 Victorian schools, reaching over 4300 students.

Media enquiries

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