STEM Education Transforming the Next Generation of Innovators

Award-winning STEM Passport for Inclusion is successfully targeting Ireland’s gender and socioeconomic disparities.

Four people stand together outdoors beside a modern building, with three wearing school uniforms and one wearing a coat. They are holding a wooden sign that reads “Building Brighter Futures #STEMPASSPORT.”

Image credit: Maxwell Photography

STEM Passport for Inclusion is setting a global standard for equity in education.

This initiative, which was originally co-designed in partnership with Microsoft Ireland’s Dream Space team, empowers young women from underrepresented communities by providing access to a university accredited STEM qualification, an industry mentor, a work experience opportunity and a reduced points pathway to study in one of the 5 partnered universities.

Ireland is a location of choice for many world-leading tech companies, but the lack of equal access to STEM education for young women has had significant consequences for the talent and knowledge pipeline.

The initiative’s success and positive impact is evidenced by:

5,000+

2,500+

92%

79%

71%

180

“

We set out to address the underrepresentation of diverse women and girls in STEM. Girls completing the programme have a renewed outlook on their potential.

Professor Katriona O'Sullivan

Maynooth University

Developed and led by Professor Katriona O’Sullivan at Maynooth University, early-stage funding from Research Ireland’s Discover Programme and co-funding with the Department of Education and Youth leveraged the project’s impact. This helped to attract significant industry partners, such as Microsoft, AMD, OPTUM and Fexco, and ensuring real-world relevance and industry alignment. The project has recently expanded to Northern Ireland and is achieving its aim of being an All-Island programme.

Partners: Microsoft Ireland, AMD, OPTUM and Fexco.

Find out more: STEM Passport WebsiteSTEM Passport Website YouTubeYouTube