Local educator attends international STEM expo

Norwood

Winnipeg

Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, also known as STEM, is an umbrella term used to group together those distinct, but related, technical disciplines in the context of education policy or curriculum choices in schools. And, it’s an exciting area of study for students willing to explore and discover whole new worlds.

Passionate about advancing STEM education and equity, Dr. Anju Bajaj is a STEM educator and advisor at Holy Cross School and Manitoba Catholic Schools, and the founder and chair of the Bison Regional Science Fair. She has spent over 15 years mentoring students and building community-based science programs.

Recognized nationally for her leadership, Bajaj, who holds a Ph.D. in life sciences and has a background in health research and education, recently represented Canada at the MILSET Expo-Sciences International 2025 in Abu Dhabi. MILSET (Mouvement International pour le Loisir Scientifique Et Technique) is a non-governmental, non-profit and politically independent youth organisation, which aims at developing scientific culture among young people.

There, she attended advanced AI workshops with global leaders focused on integrating artificial intelligence into education. Her mission is to empower youth to innovate, collaborate globally, and create positive change.

“Through this work, I’ve been able to provide world-class scientific opportunities for youth, built on community collaboration and a shared belief that education should open doors that extend far beyond the classroom,” Bajaj said, adding that her true calling is inspiring and guiding young people to explore science and innovation.

“When I immigrated to Canada nearly 25 years ago, I could never have imagined that one day I’d be mentoring youth who would represent our country on the world stage. Over the past 15 years, I’ve led STEM programs, science fairs, and mentorship initiatives that empower students to dream, discover, and lead. At the core of everything I do is a simple belief: when we nurture curiosity and open pathways for innovation, we don’t just educate students, we shape the future.”

Her connection to MILSET grew through her involvement with Youth Science Canada and the Bison Regional Science Fair, both of which give students the chance to showcase their ideas at national and international levels. This year, Bajaj was honored to receive the 2025 Distinguished Service Award from Youth Science Canada, which recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to youth STEM development across Canada.

“It’s been a huge motivation to continue pushing forward,” she said.

As part of this weeklong celebration, Bajaj attended advanced AI workshops with global leaders, where together they explored innovative ways to integrate emerging technologies into education. This year’s event featured over 1,000 international participants and over 600 projects showcasing creativity, technology, and sustainability.

There were no Manitoba students in attendance this year, but the province has a proud history of participation and Bajaj hopes to see continued interest.

“In 2019, one of our Bison Regional Science Fair finalists had the opportunity to attend a MILSET event,” she recalled. “It is a moment that continues to inspire many of our young innovators back home. Anyone from nine to 25 years old can apply to participate,” she said, adding that the experience is transformative for the students involved.

“My goal is to empower students to see themselves as innovators, leaders, and global citizens. Through events like MILSET, they don’t just learn science, they learn empathy, resilience, and collaboration. It’s a universal language that unites people, builds understanding, and drives progress. I hope these experiences inspire them to harness science and technology to solve real-world challenges and bring about meaningful change in their communities.”

Bajaj appreciates watching transformation unfold as the students who once doubted themselves discover their own brilliance.

“I want every young person to know this: your ideas matter. Your curiosity, compassion, and creativity can change the world. When we invest in youth, we invest in the future, one that is innovative, inclusive, and filled with hope.”