A growing number of campaigners have accused the oil giant BP of wielding an insidious influence over the teaching of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects in the United Kingdom through its close ties with the Science Museum.
Newly uncovered documents obtained under freedom of information laws reveal the extent of BP’s involvement in shaping educational initiatives across the country. The company reportedly funded a research project that directly led to the establishment of the Science Museum Group Academy – a teacher and educator training programme that BP now sponsors. This academy has since run over 500 courses, educating more than 5,000 teachers.
Critics argue that BP’s financial backing of this programme allows the oil firm to exert undue sway over the curriculum and pedagogy used in STEM teaching. There are concerns that BP may be using this platform to promote its own agenda and downplay the severity of climate change and the environmental impact of the fossil fuel industry.
“BP’s influence over education, particularly in the crucial STEM subjects, is deeply troubling,” said environmental activist Sarah Greene. “They are effectively buying access to young minds and subtly shaping the next generation’s understanding of science and technology.”
The revelations have sparked outrage among campaigners, who argue that the Science Museum’s acceptance of BP’s funding compromises its independence and integrity. They are calling for greater transparency and oversight of corporate partnerships within educational institutions.
“This is a classic case of insidious corporate influence,” said Emma Thompson, a spokesperson for the campaign group Culture Unstained. “BP is exploiting its relationship with the Science Museum to greenwash its image and distort the teaching of these vital subjects.”
In response, a spokesperson for the Science Museum Group defended the partnership, stating that BP’s funding has enabled the creation of valuable educational resources and programmes that have benefited thousands of teachers and students across the UK. They insisted that the museum maintains editorial control and that BP does not dictate the content or curriculum.
However, the controversy shows no signs of abating, with calls for the Science Museum to sever ties with the oil company and for the government to introduce stricter regulations around corporate influence in education. As the debate continues, the long-term impact of BP’s involvement on the teaching of STEM subjects remains a source of deep concern for many.
