The investment will be in 40 projects designed to enhance public engagement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Focus on Collaboration and Innovation in STEM Education
The Research Ireland Discover Programme focuses on creating meaningful public engagement with STEM, emphasizing collaboration with communities. The programme seeks to drive innovation in STEM education and public engagement, contributing to Ireland’s industry, enterprise, and societal progress.
Announcing the funding, Minister Lawless highlighted the importance of the initiatives: “These Discover-funded projects are crucial for triggering curiosity and encouraging greater participation in STEM across all education levels and within our communities. In particular, this investment will help foster a deeper understanding of STEM among underrepresented voices and inspire many of them to potentially become more involved in studies and careers in these fields. This will empower future generations to tackle societal challenges and share innovative solutions.”
Engagement with Underrepresented Voices in STEM
Welcoming her department’s co-funding of eight Discover projects, Minister for Education and Youth McEntee said: “In today’s world, STEM stretches far beyond the classroom and lecture halls, and the projects we are supporting today will help bring the learnings and theories students are working on to real-world application.
“Promoting awareness and appreciation of STEM in all communities is vital in inspiring students of all ages. I am proud that the Department of Education will partner again with the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science through this Research Ireland Discover Programme.”
Research Ireland’s Commitment to Enhancing Public Engagement in STEM
Celine Fitzgerald, Interim CEO at Research Ireland, welcomed the announcement, stating: “The Research Ireland Discover Programme is a cornerstone of our education and public engagement strategy. We are so pleased to be supporting these 40 projects and look forward to seeing them strengthen public engagement in STEM across Ireland and encourage more inclusive participation in shaping the future of science and innovation in Ireland.”
Shaping a More Inclusive Future for STEM Education
Professor Maggie Cusack, President at Munster Technological University, commented: "At Munster Technological University, we are proud to be part of a national effort that recognises the power of STEM to transform lives and communities. This significant investment in public engagement through the Research Ireland Discover Programme will help ensure that science and innovation are accessible, inclusive, and inspiring for all. By reaching underrepresented voices and creating real-world connections, these projects will shape a more equitable and dynamic future for STEM in Ireland.”
Key Projects Enhancing Public Engagement in STEM
Among the 40 projects supported through the Research Ireland Discover Programme are:
- All-Ireland STEM Passport for Inclusion 2025-2027, which partners with universities and industry to support 5,350 students through university-accredited qualifications, industry mentoring, and industry work experience to explore STEM education and employment opportunities.
- A Brush with Climate, which develops workshops and training material which empowers hairdressers to steer conversations toward climate action, using small talk as a tool for change.
- Rooted: Building Connections to Nature in our Communities through Theatre, which brings together scientists, dancers, theatre-makers, students, and rural communities through public performances, expert talks, and an evening-length dance theatre production to explore our connection to nature and inspire action against the climate crisis.
- Inclusive Artificial Intelligence for the next generation of innovators. The goal of this project is to embed AI knowledge and skills in the learning approach of schools and youth services. It is inclusion-focused and aims to enhance the capacity of teachers and youth workers to support young people in marginalized communities, raise their awareness of AI, develop an understanding of AI skills, spark further learning and career pathways to address diversity gaps in AI development.
Collaboration with Key Institutions for Public Engagement in STEM
Among the institutions and organisations involved are: Maynooth University, Trinity College Dublin, Kinia, University of Galway, Teen-Turn, University College Dublin, Munster Technological University, University of Limerick, National College of Ireland, Dublin City University, National Concert Hall, Cork City Council, Technological University Dublin, National Youth Council of Ireland, and Teagasc.
