The Science and Engineering Challenge (SEC) is a nationwide STEM outreach program presented by the University of Newcastle in partnership with communities, Rotary clubs, universities and sponsors. Through the SEC, students experience aspects of science and engineering which they would not usually see in their school environment.The SEC is one of Australia's longest-running STEM engagement programs, built upon strong foundations and respectful, mutually beneficial partnerships. This event is run by the University of Newcastle and allows high school students in Years 9 and 10, the chance to experience how science and engineering can help to solve real-world problems in a fun, competitive setting.
Teams of students from different schools compete against each other in a series of eight challenges. Qualifying teams compete in the State Finals, with a state champion school participating in the Science and Engineering Challenge National Final. More than 400,000 students have been involved in the SEC since the program began at the University of Newcastle in 2000.
Rotary has been a critical part of the SEC since its inception. The cooperation between Rotary and their communities is the key to ensuring successful events around Australia. In most regions, local Rotary clubs take the lead role in organising Challenge and Discovery Day events. They bring together local communities, businesses, schools, professional organisations and universities to support the Challenge financially and organisationally.
Over 2,500 Rotarians also volunteer at events each year, which means many give up time from their jobs, businesses or families. One of the main reasons Rotary became involved with the SEC was because Rotary has a long history of working with young people, often in the area of the sciences.
Over 2,500 Rotarians also volunteer at events each year, which means many give up time from their jobs, businesses or families. One of the main reasons Rotary became involved with the SEC was because Rotary has a long history of working with young people, often in the area of the sciences.
SEC - Vision
Our vision is to inspire every Australian school student to create a future in science and engineering.
SEC - Mission
Through the provision of meaningful, hands-on experiences we aim to inspire more young people to make a difference in the world by choosing a career in Science and Engineering. Science and Engineering. Create our future. Make a difference.
SEC - Core Values
- People: we value safety, inclusiveness, and teamwork. We respect individuals and are committed to empowerment and equity issues.
- Integrity: we value fairness, honesty, respect, and transparency.
- Involvement: we value broad community involvement including families, schools, charities, community groups, educational institutions;professional organisations, businesses, industries, and governments.
- Innovation: we value creative and imaginative solutions.
- Excellence: we value professional, high-quality service and are committed to continuous improvement. We aim to be a leader in our field.
Science and Engineering Challenge was awarded the United Nations Day Honour for 2022. In recognition of the program’s longstanding efforts to advance inclusive and accessible STEM education and engagement in Australia, and alignment with the principles of science-based sustainable development, as defined by the UN.
The Commonwealth of Australia was a founding member of the United Nations and remains an active participant in the UN today. As the pre-eminent institution promoting the objectives of the UN in Australia, the purpose of UNAA is to inform, inspire and engage Australians to create a safer, fairer, more sustainable world. The prestigious UN Day Honour was established to recognise an individual or organisation in Australia that has made a significant contribution to the work and purpose of the UN.
For more information on how to support this exciting project, please contact the SEC District chair: To be announced.
The Commonwealth of Australia was a founding member of the United Nations and remains an active participant in the UN today. As the pre-eminent institution promoting the objectives of the UN in Australia, the purpose of UNAA is to inform, inspire and engage Australians to create a safer, fairer, more sustainable world. The prestigious UN Day Honour was established to recognise an individual or organisation in Australia that has made a significant contribution to the work and purpose of the UN.
For more information on how to support this exciting project, please contact the SEC District chair: To be announced.
More information
Program information for 2024 (to be updated)