Engineering the future

The importance of science, engineering and technology to economic growth has long been recognised by many countries. As such, ensuring that there is an adequate supply of graduates in these areas is critical to the future development of a modern society. In 2001, the British Government commissioned an important study into "the supply of people with science, technology, engineering and mathematical skills". The report's findings highlighted a significant fall in the number of students taking physics, mathematics, chemistry and engineering degrees in Britain, with the downward trends a threat to the Government's attempts to improve productivity and competitiveness. Much evidence suggests we have a similar problem. Department of Education, Science and Training data on enrolments for Australian students shows that from 2002 to 2004, demand for natural and physical sciences increased by only 4.9 per cent, engineering enrolments fell by 1.5 per cent and information technology dropped 15.9 per cent. These figures prompted the announcement of the Australian Government's audit of science, engineering and technology skills earlier this year. Given the British study concludes that they have a problem, what does this say for Australia