Prioritising Microbiology in Secondary Education Addresses Emerging Scientific-Social-Educational Challenges and Competency Needs

Abstract

This paper explores the potential of microbiology education at the secondary school level as a catalyst for enhancing both science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) literacy and essential 21st-century competencies. As an inherently interdisciplinary field, microbiology offers an effective platform to develop scientific and technological knowledge while cultivating broader competencies, such as emotional intelligence, creativity and critical thinking, as outlined by UNESCO (UNESCO, 2016). Scientific, societal and educational (SSE) challenges for the next decade are interlinked, and many of these trans-dimensional issues require a solid foundation in biology and microbiology. Thus, research and education must evolve in step with these trends. Despite growing advocacy for microbiology in high school curricula, a significant gap remains in understanding how its teaching aligns with these broader developmental goals. This disconnection is particularly evident in Europe, where STEM engagement among youth remains low. As an experimental and accessible science, microbiology offers unique pedagogical strategies that address not only the cognitive dimensions of STEM but also the skills and attitudes needed for a complex, digital and interdependent world. By integrating microbiology into secondary education, teachers can bridge the gap between scientific literacy and future readiness, empowering students to build a generation capable of shaping a sustainable and innovative future. In this discourse, we describe examples of topics and strategies that could be implemented at the secondary education level, as well as at other educational levels, including university.