www.fas.ie/science/about.html
The Science Challenge is all about Ireland's future as a centre for scientific research and innovation. There are two policy strands; encouraging hi-tech investment and promoting science as a career.
Government policy for some years has been aimed at promoting Ireland as a country where science is an integral part of the economy. Huge efforts have been made to attract capital investment by hi-tech companies from abroad and hundreds of millions of euros have been invested in research projects.
The other strand of the Government's efforts has been to make sure the country's schools, colleges and universities are producing enough scientists and technicians to supply the demands of the science sector in the future.
Creating awareness of science and engineering
The Science Challenge is designed to attract students from the age of 10 upwards towards a career in the sciences by exposing them to advanced technology and research through contact with the US space industry in Florida.
The Science Challenge now has four elements:
* A six-week project run during the summer for recent science and engineering graduates. It is for graduates who want to pursue employment or further education through research and includes space-related science and engineering subjects, along with project work. The graduate project is implemented in association with the Florida Institute of Technology, Florida Space Authority and the University of Central Florida.
* An apprenticeship level 12-week project including work experience, allowing participants to focus on the application of technology and upskilling in respect of their trades and areas of expertise. The programme is managed by the Florida Space Authority and implemented by technological institutes and private sector companies.
* A six-month internship and on the job study project for both graduates and apprentices with NASA based supporting companies. These interns may be placed in any of a number of specialities, from aircraft mechanics to genetics or microbiology.
* Primary school pupils in 4th, 5th or 6th Class have an opportunity to enter a competition, the prize a week-long Educational trip the home of America's space programme, Kennedy Space Camp at Florida's Cape Canaveral. The children are shown how important science and technology are to our everyday lives.
The Science Challenge is designed to demonstrate that a career in science can be exciting and highly rewarding.
  