A roadshow organised by Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) involving a series of talks to female TY students called ‘DkIT Loves STEM’ (Technology, Engineering and Maths) visited Sacred Heart and Greenhills schools in Drogheda.

Leading female academics from DkIT, specialists in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths, were delighted to meet with female students and share their own experience and career journeys within the STEM industry.

STEM is the fastest growing and most in demand sector in Ireland, but recent research undertaken by iWish reported that 57% of girls lack confidence in their ability to pursue a STEM career, 66% of them see lack of information about STEM careers as a barrier to pursuing a career in STEM, with 84% of girls wanting to know more about STEM.

On a positive note though, 93% reject the stereotype that STEM careers are more suited to boys than girls.

The aim of these talks facilitated by DkIT was to address the current barriers to STEM for females by hosting talks sharing expert female’s experience of STEM industries.

DkIT are on track to open their new state of the art 1,300 sqm Science extension this year as part of an important capital investment which will allow the Institute to transform its existing facilities into a STEM centre of excellence within the northeast.

Ciara O’Shea, Equality & Diversity Officer (Athena SWAN Coordinator) at DkIT said:‘We were absolutely delighted to get the opportunity to visit our surrounding girls’ schools and bring our good news STEM stories to them.

“DkIT passionately believe in bringing equality to all subjects, particularly STEM as it is currently underrepresented by female students.

“I’d like to thank all the schools that were involved and our fabulous STEM role models who shared their stories with the students, which included Dr Fiona Lawless, Mathematics and Technology, Dr Orla Sherlock who represented Sciences and Mary Ellen Kelledy who brought Engineering to life for the TY students.

“We are extremely excited about the opening of our new and upgraded STEM facilities on campus. It is exhilarating times for STEM in DkIT!

For more information on Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) at DkIT visit www.dkit.ie