Nanan Academy Co-Founder Spoke at TEDxRegina 2024

Shaun Nanan, the co-founder and academic director of Nanan STEM Academy Inc., was on stage for the first TEDxRegina event since 2015. As a computer/electronics engineer with a rich background in education at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Nanan brings a fresh perspective to the world of teaching and learning.

A Vision for the Future

Shaun’s journey has been marked by innovation and a commitment to empowering students. His tenure at Saskatchewan Polytechnic as the program head & instructor of the Computer Engineering Technology department (2011 to 2023) and academic chair of the School of Computing and Digital Innovation (2023 to present) allowed him to shape the minds of aspiring engineering technologists. Now, as co-founder of Nanan STEM Academy, he continues to revolutionize education.

Nanan STEM Academy: Accelerating Learning

At the Nanan STEM Academy, students embark on an accelerated, future-proofed path through Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The academy equips them with essential skills for today’s technology-driven world. Here are some highlights of what students learn:

1. 3D Printing: Students explore the fascinating world of additive manufacturing, creating three-dimensional using geometry and math.
2. Coding: Nanan believes that coding is a universal language. Students dive into programming languages, algorithms, and problem-solving.
3. Team Communication Skills: Collaboration is key. The academy fosters effective communication and teamwork.
4. Robotics: Students build and program robots, applying their knowledge to real-world challenges.
5. Problem-Solving with Technology: Encourages critical thinking and creative problem-solving using cutting-edge tools.
6. Esports: Students develop essential skills and learn about game design, streaming, and the business aspects of esports.

TEDxRegina: Beyond Our Borders

The theme of this year’s TEDxRegina event is “Beyond Our Borders”. Shaun’s talk, titled “Beyond the Educational Pathway,” explores non-traditional approaches to engaging students, challenging conventional teaching methods, and inspiring educators to think differently.

A Platform for Ideas

TEDx is a grassroots movement that celebrates “ideas worth spreading”. Local leaders organize these independently curated events, adhering to TED’s guidelines. TEDxRegina 2024 featured a diverse lineup of speakers, including:

• Adam Hicks: Director of Finance and Strategic Operations at the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation.
• Sophia Young: A social activist and humanitarian.
• Anastasios Stamatinos: A Grade 9 and 10 teacher in Saskatoon.
• Maliha Jabeen Khan: Student & Humanitarian
• Kim Korven: Divorce Lawyer

See Full TED Talk here:

March 23, 2024 at the Queensbury Convention Centre, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada.

Note: The last TEDxRegina event was held in 2015, making this year’s return a momentous occasion for the community.