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From:Department of Education and Youth

Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton has launched a new Student Informal STEM Events Support Scheme aimed at helping more students participate in international STEM learning opportunities, regardless of their financial circumstances.

The new scheme will provide €100,000 in annual funding to support primary and post-primary students attending STEM-related events abroad, helping to reduce financial barriers and ensure more young people can access high-quality learning experiences outside the classroom.

Schools will be invited to apply for funding on behalf of students, with grants of up to €500 per student per event available, rising to €1,000 in exceptional circumstances, such as participation in major international competitions or multi-day programmes.

The initiative supports a key objective of Ireland's STEM Education Policy Statement 2017-2026 by expanding opportunities for learners to engage in STEM through informal, co-curricular and extra-curricular activities. It is designed to complement existing department-supported programmes and will not provide funding for initiatives already supported through schemes such as the Stripe Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition, SciFest or Science Blast.

Launching the scheme, Minister Naughton said:

"STEM learning does not begin and end in the classroom. Some of the most meaningful learning experiences take place through competitions, exhibitions, workshops and other opportunities where students can apply their knowledge, solve real-world problems and develop confidence in their abilities.

"We know that talented students, their families and schools can face significant costs when opportunities arise to participate in international STEM events. This scheme is about ensuring that financial circumstances do not become a barrier to participation. Talent, ambition and potential should determine who gets these opportunities, not the ability to pay.

"The publication of the recent PISA results reminds us that Ireland continues to perform strongly internationally in science and mathematics. We should be proud of that achievement, but we must also continue investing in initiatives that inspire young people, nurture curiosity and encourage the next generation of innovators, scientists, engineers and technology leaders.

"A particular priority for me is encouraging greater participation by girls in STEM. While progress has been made, we know there is more to do. International STEM experiences can be transformative, helping girls build confidence, develop leadership skills and see the exciting opportunities available to them in STEM education and careers."

The department will monitor participation levels, including the involvement of students from disadvantaged backgrounds, DEIS schools and underrepresented groups, to ensure the scheme delivers on its objective of broadening access to STEM opportunities.