University of Galway has been awarded €268,000 by Taighde Éireann to lead a national initiative to advance STEM engagement through Irish.
The two-year STEM as Gaeilge project aims to bring STEM to life through Irish by creating new opportunities for communities, schools, and professionals. Activities will roll out over two years, engaging with Irish-speaking communities, STEM professionals, and learners nationwide.
The funding will support a national programme of science communication, public events and educational initiatives delivered through Irish, increasing the visibility of STEM and strengthening pathways to STEM education and careers for Irish speakers nationwide.
Key initiatives of the project include a documentary showcasing STEM research and innovation across Ireland, which will be produced through the Science on Screen initiative run by CÚRAM and Ardán.
The delivery of workshops in digital engagement and data literacy will be introduced to build confidence in discussing and interpreting STEM topics through Irish, as well as the expansion of the STEM Ambassadors through Irish scheme, connecting researchers and professionals with schools and communities.
Dedicated STEM events in Gaeltacht regions will take place, while Oícheanta Ólaíochta (Pint of Science in Irish ) will be expanded to new locations nationwide. Specialist training to build long-term capacity among professionals working in STEM through Irish and a national STEM competition for school students are also included over the two-year project.
Together, these initiatives aim to normalise Irish in scientific discussion and increase participation in STEM across communities nationwide.
Professor Becky?Whay, University of Galway Deputy President and Registrar, emphasised the university's bilingual status and expressed her excitement at the project.
The University is uniquely positioned, with Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge and our Gaeltacht campuses, to foster connections with the many biomedical and renewable energy companies in the Gaeltacht," she said.
"By empowering students, staff and communities to engage with science through Irish, we are helping to strengthen pathways for learning, innovation and public participation across the country."
Project Lead Dr Fintan Hegarty from the University’s School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, said that it is important to use Irish to discuss issues that "shape our future".
He added, "STEM affects us all - from medical advances during the pandemic to developments in artificial intelligence. Our aim is to create spaces where we can have informed and engaging conversations about STEM, and?simply forget that we happen to be having them in Irish."
