Irish government launches science awareness programme
The Taoiseach (Prime Minister) of Ireland, Bertie Ahern, announced an initiative aimed at raising public awareness of science, technology and engineering on 30 October. The 'discover science and engineering' programme aims to increase the student uptake of science in schools and higher education institutes, and to promote a positive attitude to careers in science, engineering and technology. Speaking at the launch, Mr Ahern emphasised the long-term importance of the programme: 'We need to build up a momentum in science awareness. The establishment of a culture of scientific and technological innovation and increased research and development activity is crucial to our future economic growth and prosperity. 'The reality is that if we are to provide the scientists that industry needs we must encourage young people to study science subjects at second and third level and convince them that a career in science is exciting, stimulating and rewarding,' added the Taoiseach. The programme brings together a number of existing awareness raising activities, including Science Week Ireland, one of the many science weeks that take place on an annual basis in several countries around Europe. Other events to take place under the programme include the All-Island innovation awards (covering the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland) as well as the science, technology and engineering programme for schools (STEPS). The programme will be managed by Forfás, Ireland's policy advisory board for enterprise, trade, science, technology and innovation. Martin Cronin, Chief Executive of Forfás, highlighted the urgent need for such a programme: 'Its most important role will be to address the continuing declining numbers of students choosing science subjects at second and third level. This trend, if left unchecked, will have a substantial impact on Ireland's ability to make the transition to a knowledge-based economy.' Apart from awards and traditional science awareness activities, one of the more innovative components of the programme will be a new television series called SCOPE that will run on national television in Ireland. The series is designed to appeal to the teenage market and aims to show the science behind every day events and activities of interest to young people.
Kraje
Ireland