More than 100 Galway primary school students had the chance to experience the wonderful world of science recently.
The students, who came from three different schools, were given the opportunity to view NUIG’s facilities at Challenge Science 2017, which was supported by Boston Scientific, where they learned how interesting science can be.
The enthusiastic young scientists were tutored by business volunteers from Boston Scientific, who shared their experience of working in the medical device industry, as well as held workshops on forensic science, defence against disease, and careers in science, technology, and engineering . They were also treated to a tour of NUIG’s campus and science department, guided by student volunteers from the ALIVE programme.
The workshops imparted an appreciation for the world of science, and each of the activities offered focused on a highly topical scientific subject, such as the use of science in solving crime, or the vital role of bioscience in protecting against the spread of disease and bacteria.
Professor Donal Leech, NUIG’s Dean of Science, said: “NUIG are delighted to host ‘Challenge Science’, which is hugely valuable in developing an interest in science, and I hope to see some of the pupils back in NUIG in the future, as science students, or even working in the science or engineering departments at the campus.”
The enthusiasm of the students was evident from the beginning. “The workshops with the Boston Scientific staff really helped the students to realise that you can take several different paths in order to work in the field of science. The teams also showed that science can be so enjoyable, and we heard lots of excitement and enthusiasm in the workshops today, as the students vied against each other to be No 1 forensic detective.”
Boston Scientific’s Siobhan Hopper addressed the students, saying: “It’s great to see so many young people with an interest in science and technology. It’s important to continue to develop that interest and keep up STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths ) subjects in secondary school. You, the students here today, might be designing or making products that can save and improve lives in the future. Who knows? We might see you applying for roles with Boston Scientific in years to come. I’d like to thank your teachers and your schools for supporting you and bringing you to this event, and for helping to develop an interest in STEM at a young age, particularly given our location here at the medical device hub, here in Galway.”
