More than 100 pupils from Primary Schools in Galway had the chance to experience the wonderful world of science recently and discover that science is actually great fun!
The students from St. Brendan B.N.S., Loughrea, Killeeneen N.S., Craughwell, St. Michael’s B.N.S., Mervue and Scoil Bhríde, Shantalla had a day to remember at Challenge Science 2016, which was supported by Boston Scientific and hosted by NUI Galway.
The budding scientists were assisted by business volunteers from Boston Scientific, who held workshops on Forensic Science, Defence against Disease, Careers in Science, Technology and Engineering. They were also treated to a tour of the Science Department and Campus at NUI Galway by student volunteers from the ALIVE programme.
The workshops provided an appreciation and greater understanding of the ever evolving world of science.
The event was opened by Prof. Donal Leech, Dean of Science at NUI Galway, who welcomed the students to the University and commented: “NUI Galway is delighted to provide the opportunity to our young Galway students to experience working as a scientist on campus through Junior Achievement and the support of volunteers from Boston Scientific Galway. I hope we see many of these students on campus again at our STEM Promotion events or eventually as students.”
The enthusiasm of the students was evident from the start. Principal Annette Regan, St. Brendan’s Boys N.S., Loughrea said that “the boys thoroughly enjoyed their day in NUI Galway. We were delighted to be invited to take part by Junior Achievement Ireland. The children loved the hands on nature of the activities and the volunteers from Boston Scientific were enthusiastic, helpful and related brilliantly with the children.”
Elaine Boyd, Director Human Resources at Boston Scientific, Galway commented, “We are delighted to be involved in the Challenge Science event once again this year. Encouraging and supporting students to be interested in taking up any of the STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) at second level is critical to the ongoing success of businesses like Boston Scientific in Ireland. I was very impressed by the talent and enthusiasm displayed by all the students and their teachers.”