Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, and Minister for Education and Youth, Helen McEntee TD, have announced a €6.5 million investment in 40 projects designed to enhance public engagement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Seven of the projects are from UCD including two from UCD School of Medicine:
The Research Ireland Discover Programme focuses on creating meaningful public engagement with STEM, emphasising collaboration with communities. The programme seeks to drive innovation in STEM education and public engagement, contributing to Ireland’s industry, enterprise, and societal progress.
Announcing the funding, Minister Lawless highlighted the importance of the initiatives, “These Discover-funded projects are crucial for triggering curiosity and encouraging greater participation in STEM across all education levels and within our communities. In particular, this investment will help foster a deeper understanding of STEM among underrepresented voices and inspire many of them to potentially become more involved in studies and careers in these fields. This will empower future generations to tackle societal challenges and share innovative solutions.”
Welcoming her department’s co-funding of eight Discover projects, Minister for Education and Youth McEntee said, “Advancing a greater awareness and appreciation of STEM among our communities can play an instrumental role in inspiring students of all ages. STEM stretches far beyond the classroom and lecture halls, and the projects we are supporting will help thread theories through to real-world application and relevance. The Department of Education is proud to partner again with the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science through this Research Ireland Discover Programme.”
Celine Fitzgerald, Interim CEO at Research Ireland, welcomed the announcement, stating, “The Research Ireland Discover Programme is a cornerstone of our education and public engagement strategy. We are so pleased to be supporting these 40 projects and look forward to seeing them strengthen STEM engagement across Ireland and encourage more inclusive participation in shaping the future of science and innovation in Ireland.”
The UCD Initiatives are:
Among the institutions and organisations involved are: Maynooth University, Trinity College Dublin, Kinia, University of Galway, Teen-Turn, University College Dublin, Munster Technological University, University of Limerick, National College of Ireland, Dublin City University, National Concert Hall, Cork City Council, Technological University Dublin, National Youth Council of Ireland and Teagasc.
For a full list of projects and further information, visit the Research Ireland website.