UK projects to raise interest in science among children from ethnic minorities
The UK government has unveiled an initiative aimed at encouraging black and ethnic minority secondary school children to become more involved in science and maths. Grants of more than 2.2 million euro will be awarded to 37 schools around the UK, over three years. The schools will use the money to boost students' interest in science, technology, engineering and maths. The innovative programmes that are foreseen include using model trains to highlight the importance of maths in everyday life, taking part in robot competitions and learning how DNA is used to catch criminals. 'This government recognises that our success in science is crucial to our future prosperity and we are determined to develop a scientific workforce that is representative of the society it serves,' said Department of Trade and Industry Secretary, Barry Gardiner. 'However, research indicates we need to do more to encourage Bangladeshi and Pakistani girls and Afro-Caribbean boys, in particular, to consider a future career in [science, technology, engineering and maths] fields.' Schools with a high proportion of pupils from these ethic groups were invited to bid for funding, and Mr Gardiner declared the government 'thrilled' with the response. The government is particularly pleased that a number of the projects involve clusters of schools, so that the initiatives will reach a larger number of children and create stronger links between the schools. The programme was launched during the UK's Science Week, which ran from 10 to 17 March.
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