TikTok is making strides in promoting educational content by launching its STEM feed in Zimbabwe. This dedicated tab emphasizes the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, aiming to foster continuous learning and discovery among users. By connecting individuals with similar interests, the STEM feed aspires to build a vibrant community focused on these crucial subjects.

According to a blog post from TikTok, “The STEM feed, which sits alongside the popular For You feed, unveils a wealth of knowledge curated from respected experts in their respective fields.” Since the launch of the STEM feed in April 2024, this initiative has contributed to a remarkable 35% increase in global content related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Initially, the STEM feed reached around 150 million users in select parts of Europe. Six months later, TikTok broadened its reach to include more European users and introduced the feed in the United States and Canada, expanding the audience for STEM content to approximately 10 million.

TikTok recognizes the concerns raised by authorities about explicit content and is responding with this educational initiative. The STEM feed comes with an automatically activated setting, allowing users to easily engage with enriching content. For those who prefer a different experience, the feed can be disabled by adjusting the content settings within the app.

The platform emphasizes that educational communities are flourishing on TikTok, with nearly 10 million STEM-related videos shared globally in the past three years alone. To maintain high standards and ensure the quality of content, TikTok is strengthening its partnerships with organizations such as Common Sense Networks and the Poynter Institute. These organizations, known for their focus on age-appropriate content and journalistic integrity, will serve as gatekeepers, ensuring that only appropriate and reliable content is showcased on the STEM feed.

TikTok plans to continue expanding the STEM feed on a global scale. Future developments include the introduction of localized content in various languages, including French, German, Spanish, Italian, and Arabic, further enhancing the accessibility of educational content for users worldwide.