Background

The ability to obtain a high-quality education is crucial in determining one's quality of life and chances of a secure future. However, access to high-quality education is hampered by several barriers for marginalized people. Numerous challenges affect students in these areas, including low financing, restricted access to qualified teachers, and scarce resources. Consequently, they receive little exposure to the most recent advances in STEM sectors (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). Their chances for academic and personal development are further constrained by the limited availability of science-based experiential education, project-based learning, and competitive events. For example, schools in underserved areas often have smaller student populations and fewer resources, making it more challenging to attract quality teachers or provide the latest technology and educational resources. 

For students in underserved areas, constrained academic chances and low employment prospects could also result in them being less likely to attend college or seek higher degrees, limiting their employment options and impeding their ability to move up the economic ladder. For kids in these conditions, the lack of access to high-quality education has major repercussions. Additionally, because they are underrepresented in STEM professions, they have less possibilities to work in high-paying businesses, which serves to keep economic inequities in underserved areas alive.