Research finds STEM inclusion programme has helped more than 5,000 girls

More than 5,000 young girls from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds in Ireland have benefitted from the All-Ireland STEM Passport for Inclusion programme.

The All-Ireland STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) Passport for Inclusion programme is a joint initiative by Microsoft Ireland, Maynooth University, Research Ireland and the Department of Education.

They aim to address the critical disparities in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths education, particularly those that affect girls from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds.

The STEM Passport for Inclusion Impact Report has now been released and reveals how the initiative is helping school girls understand the pathways for STEM careers and gain more confidence to pursue these roles. 

Thrilled to launch our #STEMPInc #ImpactReport at @Microsoftirl yesterdayWe showcased key learnings & achievements, hosted inspiring panel discussions with partners and #STEM students from @borrisokanecc
Read the Report here: https://t.co/c7zOgjKB2o#STEMPassport #Inclusion pic.twitter.com/3cJ99ZVFUt

— STEM Passport for Inclusion (@STEMPassport) November 27, 2024

The survey, which was conducted on 5,000 participants, found that only 28% of students  knew a woman working in STEM before participating, but after the programme, this number rose to 92%, helping to break down stereotypes and raise awareness. 

At the beginning of the course, just 45% of students reported they knew what STEM was before participating in the STEM Passport for Inclusion. Afterwards, 95% reported they knew what STEM was.

Of the 117 DEIS schools who took part, 70% of students completed the course. Students in these areas showed the largest increase in confidence and interest in pursuing STEM.

After the programme, the survey reveals that 76% of students are now considering a career in STEM, while 79% are now considering applying to study STEM. 

Since the All-Ireland STEM Passport for Inclusion programme’s inception in 2021, 5,370 students from across the 4 provinces of Ireland have been reached. 

Following the survey, The STEM Passport for Inclusion has reported on the recommendations they hope to achieve in order to expand the programme. 

They include, expanding the programme to all DEIS schools nationwide, providing the necessary resources for these schools, introducing funded STEM Work Experience Programmes, funding research on the programme’s impact, acquiring stable large-scale funding and ensuring there is equal access to STEM subjects in all schools across the country.