Transition Year students from Portlaoise College were among the 920 participating students from across the country who had graduated from the STEM Passport for Inclusion programme at a ceremony held at Maynooth University.
The STEM Passport for Inclusion programme aims to break barriers and empower students from under-served backgrounds to pursue career pathways in science, technology, engineering and maths.
Led by Prof. Katriona O’Sullivan at Maynooth University in partnership with lead and founding partner Microsoft, the STEM Passport for Inclusion programme is funded by Research Ireland, the Department of Education and Youth and Microsoft, as well as by many industry and education partners.
Participants of the programme benefited from earning a Level 6 National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) university qualification.
They also benefited from academic support, mentorship from industry professionals, and exposure to real-world work experience opportunities within the STEM sector.
Research shows that after completing the programme, students show an eagerness to continue in STEM, with 79% considering applying to study STEM at third level, while 76% are considering a career in STEM.
Prof. Katriona O’Sullivan speaking about the programme, said: “The continued growth of STEM Passport for Inclusion demonstrates its success in encouraging students from disadvantaged backgrounds to explore the wide range of opportunities available to them.
“It is inspiring to see Transition Year students from communities across Leinster being supported to recognise their potential and envision futures in STEM.”
Since its launch, more than 5,000 students have completed the STEM Passport for Inclusion programme.
As the programme enters its next phase, it is aiming to support a further 5,000 while expanding to include TY boys, Youthreach learns, and women returning to education.
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