In recent years, concerns have grown over the inadequate development of key competencies and skills among school students, particularly as they transition to higher education or the workforce. Studies consistently reveal that traditional teaching methods fail to equip learners with the adaptability, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills necessary in today’s fast-evolving landscape. These gaps are especially evident in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, where rigid curricula and a lack of interdisciplinary approaches hinder student engagement and achievement.

The challenge is compounded by limited support for teachers in adopting innovative, student-centered methodologies. Many educators lack access to training and resources needed to implement effective project-based learning practices. This deficiency not only affects the quality of teaching but also perpetuates a cycle of disengagement in critical fields, such as science and technology, where creativity and entrepreneurial thinking are vital.

Recognizing these systemic issues, the STEAME project seeks to address the root causes of the problem by focusing on empowering teachers as facilitators of change. By building on the evolution of STEM into STEAME (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics, and Entrepreneurship), the project leverages interdisciplinary learning to cultivate essential skills in students. At its core, this initiative emphasizes the development of teacher competence, as educators are key to transforming classrooms into spaces where innovation and critical thinking thrive.

The project operates within a framework of local and international collaboration, bridging gaps between school education, university training, and industry needs. This network supports in-service and pre-service teachers through tailored training programs that emphasize multidisciplinary, project-based learning. By integrating real-world industry perspectives into teacher education, the project ensures relevance to evolving workforce needs. Additionally, structured mentorship and mobility opportunities foster ongoing professional development, while the creation of a shared competence framework aligns practices across institutions.

By contextualizing teacher education within the broader challenges of preparing students for the future, the STEAME project aims to tackle these persistent deficits at their source, offering a holistic and sustainable solution.

Keywords: Competence development, Project-Based Learning, STEAME Education, Teacher Training, Educational Innovation.