Bringing STEM to students of all types

Royalwood

Artificial intelligence (AI) is now unavoidable at home, work and school. Its development, use and governance intersect in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics — the disciplines often collectively referred to as STEM in educational settings.

Dr. Anju Bajaj, a resident of South St. Vital and award-winning educator, STEM adviser and research scientist recognizes the challenges AI presents for the next generation.

The Women in STEM, AI & Innovation Conference was established by Dr. Bajaj to help young people face this new reality. Dr. Bajaj chairs and is lead organizer of the event, which was virtual for years before becoming an in-person conference last year.

Aimed at students in grades 7-12, the conference will run from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 10 at Holy Cross School, one day ahead of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

“For many students — especially girls and those from underrepresented communities — STEM can feel distant or inaccessible,” Dr. Bajaj noted.

“This conference is designed to change that narrative by creating a space where students of all genders are welcome as participants and allies, learning together through meaningful conversations, and real-world engagement.”

Programming will include an opening address, a panel discussion and moderated Q & A, and an innovation exchange and mentorship lab, during which students rotate through curated stations.

Participating organizations in 2025 included the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba (CHRIM); the Health Sciences Graduate Student Association (HSGSA), Rady Faculty of Health Sciences (RFHS) at the University of Manitoba; the University of Winnipeg; the BioScience Association of Manitoba; and North Forge. The list of 2026 participants will soon be finalized.

“Celebrating women and girls in science shouldn’t be symbolic,” Dr. Bajaj said. “It should be experiential, empowering, and student-centred.”

Approximately 400 Manitoba students took part in 2025, and Dr. Bajaj looks forward to welcoming young people from all cultures across public and private schools.

“At its heart, this conference is about possibility – helping students see that they belong in STEM, that their ideas matter, and that their voices can shape the future. When young people feel seen and supported, extraordinary things begin to happen.”

Cost to attend is $20 per student, which includes light refreshments, welcome materials and resources. Bursaries are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The registration deadline for interested teachers and/or administrators is Jan. 2, with forms available at: https://forms.office.com/r/USTU2X9R7G. For more information, email bisonregional@gmail.com.