More than 100 primary schools students in Galway have experienced the wonderful world of science at Challenge Science 2018, thanks to Boston Scientific and NUI Galway.
The enthusiastic young scientists from Scoil Mhuire Brierhill, Presentation Primary School, Tuam, Cregmore N.S. and Carrabane N.S. were tutored by business volunteers from Boston Scientific during this exciting event held in NUI Galway (NUIG). The volunteers shared their experience of working in the medical device industry and held workshops on Forensic Science, Defence against Disease, Careers in Science, Technology and Engineering. Students were also treated to a tour of the Science Department and Campus at NUIG by student volunteers from the ALIVE programme who spoke about their experience at university.
The event workshops provided an exciting insight into the world of science and each of the activities focused on a highly topical and interesting 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.
Prof. Donal Leech, Dean of Science at NUIG, said: “NUI Galway are proud to host Challenge Science 2018, helping to inspire primary school students and to encourage them to consider studying STEM subjects in secondary school and eventually in NUI Galway so that they can become the scientific explorers and problem-solvers of the future!”
The enthusiasm of the students was evident throughout the day. Carol O’Doherty, HR Business Manager at Boston Scientific, commented: “These workshops taught by our Boston Scientific Volunteers in NUIG help and encourage students to realise that they can take several different and interesting paths to work in the field of science and it can be so enjoyable. We heard lots of excitement and enthusiasm during the activities today and the interest shown by the students was fantastic. It is important to continue to develop this interest and keep up STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) subjects in secondary school. The students here today might be designing or making products that can save and improve lives in the future. We look forward to that day!”