Louth transition year students celebrate STEM success

Transition Year students from St. Louis Secondary School, St. Oliver’s Community School, Ardee Community School, Bush Post Primary School, and Coláiste Chú Chulainn, Louth were among the students from across Leinster who today graduated from the STEM Passport for Inclusion programme at a ceremony held at Maynooth University.

The STEM Passport for Inclusion programme aims to break barriers and empower students from under-served backgrounds to pursue career pathways in science, technology, engineering and maths.

The Louth students completed the programme alongside peers from across the country, earning a Level 6 National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) university qualification. Participants also benefited from academic supports, mentorship from industry professionals and exposure to real-world work experience opportunities within the STEM sector.

Research shows that after completing the programme, students show an eagerness to continue in STEM, with 79pc considering applying to study STEM at third level, while 76pc are considering a career in STEM.

Prof. Katriona O’Sullivan speaking about the programme, said: “The continued growth of STEM Passport for Inclusion demonstrates its success in encouraging students from disadvantaged backgrounds to explore the wide range of opportunities available to them. It is inspiring to see Transition Year students from communities across Leinster being supported to recognise their potential and envision futures in STEM.”

Since its launch, more than 5,000 students have completed the STEM Passport for Inclusion programme, and as the programme enters its next phase, it is aiming to support a further 5,000 while expanding to include TY boys, Youthreach learns, and women returning to education.

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Led by Prof. Katriona O’Sullivan at Maynooth University in partnership with lead and founding partner Microsoft, the STEM Passport for Inclusion programme is funded by Research Ireland, the Department of Education and Youth and Microsoft, as well as by many industry and education partners.

Graduation ceremonies will take place over three days, from 28–30th January, celebrating the achievements of 920 learners who have successfully completed the programme.