29th February 2024
Press Release
CDI Named One of 38 Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Discover Programme Grant Recipients for 2024
Ministers Harris and Foley Announce Funding for STEM Public Engagement
CDI are delighted to announce that we are one of 38 SFI Discover Programme grant recipients for 2024. Our project, “Doodle STEAM: Building Parental Confidence in STEAM Activities”, aims to build capacity and confidence among parents of children aged 6 to 8 years to engage in STEAM activities at home. Facilitated in schools, parents will be brought on a STEAM learning journey that is hands-on, practical, and, most importantly, fun! With co-funding from the Department of Education and SFI, we are excited to continue to promote STEAM learning among parents, fostering a sense of community, curiosity, and wonder among parents and children alike.
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD, and Minister for Education Norma Foley TD, announced a €5 million investment in 38 projects to promote understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) among the public. This funding aims to increase awareness of STEM’s societal impact, facilitate dialogue, and promote diversity in STEM disciplines.
Minister Harris emphasised the importance of community involvement and diversity in inspiring curiosity about STEM. At the same time, Minister Foley highlighted the Department of Education’s commitment to fostering learners’ curiosity and supporting initiatives that encourage continued STEM studies. CDI is proud to be among the 38 projects supported by the SFI Discover Programme, contributing to advancing STEM education and engagement in Ireland.
“Project lead Clare Bohan, says that ‘Doodle STEAM is a fantastic programme, where parents can get stuck in learning about science, technology, engineering, arts, and maths in a really fun way. We have partnered with over 15 DEIS schools in Dublin and further afield to deliver Doodle STEAM already, and with SFI Discover, we will see Doodle STEAM reach up to 600 parents.’.
If you want to hear more about Doodle STEAM or get involved, please don’t hesitate to contact our Literacy and STEAM coordinator, Denise Lakes (denise.lakes@cdi.ie).
Further Information: