Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed the launch of a new Student Informal STEM Events Support Scheme aimed at helping more students participate in international STEM learning opportunities, regardless of their financial circumstances.

The new scheme will provide €100,000 in annual funding to support primary and post-primary students attending STEM-related events abroad, helping to reduce financial barriers and ensure more young people can access high-quality learning experiences outside the classroom.

Schools will be invited to apply for funding on behalf of students, with grants of up to €500 per student per event available, rising to €1,000 in exceptional circumstances, such as participation in major international competitions or multi-day programmes.

Minister Canney said: “This new scheme recognises that STEM education does not begin and end in the classroom – many of the most important learning experiences take place in competitions, exhibitions, workshops and other opportunities.

“Many of these students, their families and schools can face significant costs to participate in such international STEM events. This scheme will mean financial circumstances do but become a barrier to such worthwhile learning experiences.”

The department will monitor participation levels, including the involvement of students from disadvantaged backgrounds, DEIS schools and underrepresented groups, to ensure the scheme delivers on its objective of broadening access to STEM opportunities.