Novi Education, a global education company based in Singapore and co-founded by Francesco De Ferrari, has launched "Moonshot," a groundbreaking after-school program. This initiative aims to ignite students' interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) by focusing on space exploration. Francesco De Ferrari, formerly a Credit Suisse executive and CEO of the bank's Asia Pacific private banking division, leverages his vast experience in wealth management and international business for this new educational endeavor.
Developed in partnership with Space Center Houston, NASA's official visitor center, Moonshot promises to transform education worldwide. Francesco De Ferrari's transition from finance to education mirrors a broader trend among business leaders who are using their skills to tackle global learning and development challenges. The program was officially launched in April in Rome, marking a significant milestone in the collaboration between Novi Education and Space Center Houston.
"The expression 'moonshot' has been synonymous with ambitious goals and dreams that become reality. It's a perfect name for the educational program we're bringing to Italy and [more broadly] Europe", says William T. Harris, President, and CEO of Space Center Houston, emphasizing the importance of the program. Harris continues by highlighting the rapid growth of the space economy, which is currently valued at $478b annually and expected to reach $1t by 2030.
Moonshot targets students aged 7 to 18, aiming to attract, excite, and engage them in STEM subjects by leveraging the world of space exploration. The pilot project has already involved 600 students from two private English-language institutes in Italy, namely, Acorn House International Bilingual School in Rome and Smiling International School in Ferrara. The programme's curriculum incorporates hands-on activities, interactive simulations, and real-world problem-solving exercises related to space missions and technologies.
An exceptional feature of the Moonshot program is its emphasis on interdisciplinary education. Through integrating themes of space exploration into subjects such as physics, biology, mathematics, art, and literature, students develop a comprehensive understanding of how various fields intertwine with practical applications. Novi Education's goal is to ensure Moonshot is scalable and inclusive, extending its reach to public schools. This commitment reflects the company's mission to inspire global learning and equip students for a brighter future. Additionally, Novi Education is exploring collaborations with local educational institutions and government bodies to tailor the program to diverse cultural and educational frameworks.
As Moonshot is implemented, educators and parents will closely observe its effects on student engagement and academic achievement. Initial responses from the pilot program have been encouraging, with students showing heightened interest in STEM subjects and gaining a clearer perspective on potential careers in the space industry. The positive outcomes of Moonshot may set a precedent for similar initiatives globally, blending conventional education with advanced applied science. These programs meet the demand for a skilled workforce in the growing space sector and equip students for forthcoming opportunities.
With the introduction of Moonshot, Novi Education leads the way in pioneering educational practices, establishing a benchmark for global STEM education programs. The company's approach, integrating educational proficiency with business acumen, serves as a blueprint for future educational initiatives. As Moonshot expands, Novi Education intends to create supplementary resources such as online platforms and teacher training programs to facilitate its implementation across varied educational environments.
