Research has revealed that 92 per cent of UK businesses employ Stem-skilled people, yet fewer pupils have been taking the subjects and only 13 per cent of undergraduates in UK universities are studying Stem degrees.

In Scotland, there was good news this year, with a slight increase in the number of pupils sitting chemistry and physics Highers. But there is still concern about standards, with a recent international publication finding that Scotland's performance in maths and science subjects in schools is deteriorating and that we are now nearly bottom of the OECD class.

This is an important agenda in the Highlands because of our strengths in the energy, ICT, life sciences, construction, and food and drink sectors, in which knowledge of these subjects is highly valued. If our economy is to prosper and retain more talented young people, participation in Stem and awareness of these opportunities needs to grow.

SCDI's contribution is our Young Engineers and Science Clubs network run by teachers within schools. Their purpose is to engage pupils in practical, hands-on activities, and encourage them to continue studies of these subjects. They also counter misconceptions that STEM subjects are "too hard" or "not for girls". Many clubs are assisted by local companies and this helps to inform young people of the wide range of careers available.

Currently, there are some 50 clubs registered throughout the Highlands and Islands, and we have ambitions to expand this network. With support from Highlands and Islands Enterprise, LifeScan Scotland, Morrison Construction, The Royal Academy of Engineering and Lloyd's Register Educational Trust, we have created a new position of Highlands and Islands co-ordinator and I am pleased to announce that she will begin work shortly. Carrie Joss, who has a background in the oil and gas industry and teaching experience, will be based in our Inverness office, but support clubs across the region.

With funding from the Scottish Government's Science Engagement Scheme, Carrie will be developing a showcase event for pupils involved in the clubs. She will also create links with companies which are interested in inspiring youngsters who may become part of their workforce in the future and in raising their profile within their local community.

Carrie will work closely with the Stem North of Scotland Partnership, especially their Stem Ambassadors who take part in activities in and outside schools, and act as role models to encourage pupils to continue with their studies in Stem subjects. She will also facilitate links between the clubs and UHI to increase awareness of study opportunities.

The UK Government has announced a new industrial plan to create the high value jobs in the "network" industries of the future, which Scottish secretary Jim Murphy will discuss with SCDI members in Inverness next week. Understanding of Stem subjects is essential for them. With challenges like climate change, this knowledge is also a priority for our society. I hope that businesses, schools, parents and young people get involved.

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