Our society faces numerous challenges related to security, competitiveness, self-sufficiency, and environmental sustainability, especially in light of recent geopolitical tensions in Europe and the Middle and Far East. The European Union is focusing on achieving technological and product independence to safeguard its economy and democratic principles. Key areas include environmentally friendly energy, nuclear power, semiconductor technologies, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies. However, there is a growing shortage of skilled engineers in STEM fields, which are essential for technological advancement. Despite the need, interest in STEM education is declining in the EU, with STEM studies constituting only 26.5% of all studies and specific fields like construction seeing a dramatic decrease. ICT and science studies have seen some growth, but overall, the trend is concerning for future technical workforce needs.

Finding solutions to these challenges will be the focus of the European STEM Education Conference 2024, which will be hosted by Brno University of Technology on 21 and 22 October.