ON Semiconductor Inspires Youth by Supporting De BroeBELschool in Belgium

A key focus of our corporate social responsibility program at ON Semiconductor is working to align business objectives with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 4: Quality Education. This goal aims to enable quality and inclusive education for all in addition to promoting life-long learning. In accordance with this aim, ON Semiconductor looks to support educational and community initiatives that work to foster continuous learning with engaging youth development programs. We recognize the importance of meaningful participation of young people in society through creative, scientific and technological pursuits. 

STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) education, one of our focus areas for philanthropic giving, is one important way to engage youth to develop the skills and knowledge required to become active participants in modern society. That said, ON Semiconductor is excited to share the outcomes of a youth education program that we funded in 2019. As a global giving grantee, Basisschool Dé BroeBEL successfully implemented a comprehensive STEM project for youth ages four to seven over the past year. Located in Oudenaarde, Belgium, Dé BroeBELschool is a primary school centered on whole-child development through experiential learning and social engagement. 

The STEM project focused on three areas: science and the environment, technology and engineering, and robotics and programming. Through an array of new educational materials and interactive devices purchased through these grant monies, the students indulged their curiosities and interests in new ways. From investigating organisms with microscopes to discovering electricity by building their very own circuits, the students were eager to participate in hands-on learning.

New laptops and tablets helped to involve students with reading software and spelling programs. Interactive online games also help to engage multiple learning types so visual and auditory learners can become engaged according to their style and interests.

As Nathalie Van Driessche, coordinator of Dé BroeBELschool, stated:

“We can respond much more to the individual needs of all students and for students with dyslexia, it is a great improvement.” 

With classrooms newly equipped to fulfill resource gaps, a wider range of topics were introduced to the students, thus sparking new questions and curiosities. The new software and devices also supported greater inclusivity for a variety of young learners, as hands-on learning helped to activate the five senses as they learn through exploring. Importantly, the students’ days were filled with enjoyment by learning new ideas alongside peers.

Brigitte Scheldewaert, customer support manager at ON Semiconductor Belgium and grant advisor for the EMEA region, shared:

“This project was a joint effort between an employee at our Oudenaarde site who was a technical engineer, myself as the local grant advisor and the school. Programs where we are able to work together to introduce new STEAM initiatives in primary schools are great initiatives that make a difference in the community where we live and work. It is a perfect combination and that is why we encourage our employees to give back and get involved locally.”

ON Semiconductor is happy to support children in their learning journey during early stages of life. Through the quality educational STEAM opportunities Dé BroeBELschool provides, we can ensure students are inspired to pursue lifelong learning and contribute to the betterment of their community.

For more information about how ON Semiconductor supports youth in the community, visit ON Semiconductor Foundation. 

Learn more about Dé BroeBELschool through their media channels.