Google is encouraging Galway's female students to take up computer science with a new scholarship programme.
The company's Women Techmakers’ Irish University Scholarship aims to increase gender equality in computer science in Ireland by encouraging women to excel in computing and technology, and become active leaders and role models in the industry.
The global ‘WTM Scholarship’, which will now have a dedicated Irish ptogramme for the first time, is open for applications. The scholarships, which are worth €5,000 for the duration of students' undergraduate studies, will be awarded based on the applicants' strength of impact on diversity, demonstrated leadership and academic background.
Jessica McCarthy, director of engineering at Google Ireland, says Google wants to inspire and mentor a new generation of women in engineering and technology.
"The Women Techmakers Irish University Scholarship will help us to do just that. The programme aims to engage a new generation of young women in Irish universities and related institutions and foster a more positive view of the actual working experience of women in the Irish tech sector.
"We are thrilled to be launching a dedicated programme for students in Ireland, as we have seen great success with it in other markets.”
Ten student applications will be chosen in 2020 and five further students will be chosen every year, thereafter.
Scholarship funds will be distributed to selected scholarship recipients, on an annual basis, for the duration of the student’s undergraduate programme for up to four years. Those eligible to apply must be currently enrolled as a first or second year undergraduate student at a university/institute of technology in Ireland. They must intend to continue pursuing their Bachelors degree at a university/institute of technology in Ireland for at least the 2020-21 and 2021-22 academic years. They must be studying computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related technical field, demonstrate a strong academic record, and exemplify leadership and show a passion for increasing the involvement of women in technology.
All scholarship recipients will also be invited to attend the annual Google Student Retreat in one of Google’s Europe offices in 2020. This retreat will provide an opportunity to connect with fellow scholars, network with Googlers, and participate in a number of developmental workshops.
Any one wishing to apply for Google’s Women Techmakers Irish University Scholarship can do so by visiting the Google scholarships page. Applications will be open until Thursday December 5, 2019. For questions on the scholarship programme students can email [email protected].
