Athlone-based engineering services and cloud-native software development company Sidero has launched a programme which aims to encourage young people to explore careers in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).
The GlobalLogic company is initially rolling out the Ignite programme at Coláiste Chiaráin secondary school in Athlone, Co Roscommon, and plans to enrol up to 40 of the school's first year students in the programme this year.
Over the course of 12 weeks, students will learn how to build a calculator and create an online computer game using software that they design and develop themselves.
18 Sidero software engineers will work closely with the students on these hands-on projects and teach them how to code, encourage critical thinking and problem solving, and promote teamwork.
"There can often be a gap in computer science education until students reach the Leaving Certificate cycle, and we aim to bridge this gap with the Ignite programme," said Kelley Keogh, Service Delivery Manager at Sidero.
"We believe that it is vital to encourage and nurture an interest in STEM from a young age," she added.
Ms Keogh said they also hope the programme will help to inspire an interest in technology careers among young girls, with a recent survey showing that engineering may not be a popular career choice for women.
"42% of pupils said it is a male-dominated field, and the same proportion said it is due to a lack of role models," she said.
"However, an overwhelming majority said they believe there are opportunities for women in software and engineering.
"The world's first computer programmer, Ada Lovelace, was a woman, and it is heartening that the next generation recognises the potential of a career in STEM," she added.
