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Growing demand for STEM skills spurs education overhauls across emerging markets
Planet One initiative seeks to address increasing demand as employers are struggling to fill roles requiring digital and engineering capabilities
- PUBLISHED: Sun 22 Mar 2026, 8:45 PM
A surge in demand for science and technology talent is driving governments across emerging markets to overhaul national education systems, as industries increasingly depend on automation, artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing. From agritech to smart factories, employers are struggling to fill roles requiring digital and engineering capabilities, widening an already‑significant skills gap. Analysts say the shortage is most acute in regions with rapidly expanding youth populations, where economic diversification hinges on a workforce proficient in robotics, coding and data-driven problem solving.
This global shift has placed STEM education at the centre of policy reforms, with ministries seeking partners capable of modernizing curricula and equipping teachers to deliver hands‑on, technology-rich instruction. The emphasis has moved well beyond building computer labs. Governments are now looking for integrated learning ecosystems that embed AI, IoT, mechatronics and digital fabrication skills from early schooling through vocational and tertiary levels.
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Against this backdrop, Planet One Group—led by chairman Sanjeev Mansotra—announced it is accelerating its focus on STEM education solutions across Africa. The company has developed a transformation model that combines curriculum modernization, structured teacher training and innovation labs equipped with AI platforms, robotics systems and automation tools. Its latest engagement includes supporting a nationwide STEM initiative across 20 locations in Guinea, integrating advanced labs in robotics, AI, mechatronics and coding to better align learning with emerging industry needs.
Mansotra said: “The African continent is projected to require 23 million STEM graduates by 2030. As nations are moving quickly to build indigenous technological capabilities, Planet One is enabling them strengthening domestic skills in AI systems, smart manufacturing, renewable energy, and digital infrastructureHe said Planet One aims to strengthen domestic capabilities in smart manufacturing, renewable energy and digital infrastructure. The company has also invested in a U.S.-based AR/VR solutions provider, positioning it to offer scalable, cost‑effective alternatives to traditional laboratories for large‑scale institutional deployments.
