Junior Achievement Ireland Energize Programme Inspires the Next Generation of STEM Innovators

Although the demand for employees with strong STEM skills continues to rise, recent research shows that many Irish students are not fully prepared to pursue STEM-related careers. Aligned with the objectives of Ireland’s STEM Education Policy Statement (2017–2026) – which calls for greater engagement and inspiration among young people – Junior Achievement Ireland (JAI) is taking action.

Thanks to funding from the Research Ireland Discover Programme, supported by the Department of Education and Youth and Gas Networks Ireland, JAI is running the Energize programme in primary schools around Ireland.  Energize is a dynamic STEM and sustainability programme designed to broaden students’ understanding of science, environmental responsibility, and the diverse paths open to them in the future world of work.

Speaking about the value of the programme in the Irish education system, Brendan Owens, Programme Manager at Research Ireland, said:

Energize is such a valuable programme to bridge students experience of STEM from primary to post primary education. It supports our mission to build and diversify Ireland’s talent pipeline and helps students see new and unique routes into STEM courses and careers through authentic role models.

Energize is a 5-module programme tailored specifically to engage 6th class students (age 12) at a pivotal point in their educational journey as they prepare to transition to second level. Built to support the social, environmental and scientific education curriculum, the programme deepens students’ understanding of science in society while building confidence and curiosity in STEM subjects. The content is designed not only to strengthen foundational knowledge but also to spark early interest in pursuing STEM pathways in later years.

A core strength of Energize is JAI’s proven model of engaging volunteers from the world of work to deliver classroom sessions. These volunteers bring real life insights and expertise that help students understand the relevance of STEM in everyday life. Volunteers help challenge stereotypes including the common misconception that STEM careers are confined to laboratories. They also highlight the breadth of roles across industry, technology, health, research, engineering and beyond.

As a long-time supporting organisation of JAI, Gas Networks Ireland have seen the impact of programmes like Energize first hand. Anne Moore, Sustainability Manager at Gas Networks Ireland, shared her first-hand experience of JAI volunteering:

Gas Networks Ireland has with JAI for over 16 years and we have had countless staff tell us that volunteering with JAI is a special experience where they feel they are making a real difference. Experiencing the students’ enthusiasm and energy when you walk in the classroom really brings home how important it is to establish an interest in STEM and maintain that engagement with programmes like Energize.

Beyond traditional STEM careers, Energize also shines a spotlight on rapidly growing green careers. Climate action and sustainability are embedded throughout the programme, offering students hands-on learning experiences that include exploring renewable energy, understanding the vital role of trees and bees in biodiversity, and developing their own “Leave No Trace” campaign. Through this learning-by-doing approach, students gain a tangible understanding of how science and STEM skills contribute to addressing global environmental challenges.

Speaking about the launch, Helen Raftery, CEO of JAI said:

Energize gives young people the chance to see themselves in the STEM and green careers that will shape Ireland’s future. By connecting students with inspiring role models from the world of work and providing hands-on learning experiences, we’re helping them build the confidence, curiosity and skills they need to thrive. We are deeply grateful to the Research Ireland Discover Programme and Gas Networks Ireland for supporting this important initiative. Together, we are empowering the next generation of innovators and problem solvers.

To find out more about Energize and JAI’s other programmes, visit www.jai.ie.