Minister for Education and Skills Richard Bruton TD officially opened the I Wish STEM showcase at the RDS on Monday, January 29. The event aims to encourage more young girls in Ireland to choose courses and careers in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).
More than 5,000 female transition year students from 22 counties across Ireland will experience what a career in STEM looks like through talks by inspirational female role models working in STEM, an extensive industry showcase and a STEM entrepreneur zone. This year I Wish also introduced a Teacher Zone to support teachers with information and practical advice in relation to the STEM sector. The I Wish events are supported by Science Foundation Ireland, with headline sponsor Dell EMC and VMware and conference sponsor Arup Ireland.
Already 2,000 female students attended the free I Wish STEM Showcase events in Cork over 2 days, and now the I Wish events in Dublin will welcome a further 3,000 students over the next 2 days.
Speaking at the opening, Minister Bruton said: “Choosing subjects and courses can be challenging for students, and events like I Wish can really help to explain the opportunities that STEM can offer and showcase the possibilities of a career in the STEM sectors. I’m keen to promote the uptake of STEM subjects during my time as Minister, especially among women and I am delighted to be here to officially open I Wish which will see more than 3,000 students experience STEM over 2 days here at the RDS Dublin.”
Pictured above: Annie Curran from Wesley College, Dublin at the I Wish STEM showcase at the RDS Dublin.
Image by: Shane O’Neill, SON Photographic
