Transition Year Students and Women’s Collective Ireland Participants Graduate from Maynooth University STEM Inclusion Programme

Participants from Women’s Collective Ireland (WCI), Ronanstown, along with 319 Transition Year (TY) students from schools across Leinster, today graduated from the STEM Passport for Inclusion programme at a ceremony held at Maynooth University. 

The STEM Passport for Inclusion programme aims to break barriers and empower students from under-served backgrounds to pursue career pathways in science, technology, engineering and maths.

The involvement of WCI Ronanstown is an important milestone for the programme as it aims to expand its reach and further bridge the gap in STEM access for people from underserved backgrounds.

STEM Passport for Inclusion enables participants to earn a Level 6 National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) university qualification, alongside receiving academic supports, work experience opportunities and mentorship from industry professionals.

Among today’s graduates is Dionne Hannifin-Daly, who completed the programme at WCI Ronanstown alongside her mother, Avril, who has been involved with WCI for the past 20 years.

Reflecting on her experience, Dionne said: “The STEM Passport for Inclusion programme has transformed how I see careers in STEM. It has encouraged me to explore opportunities in AI and to think innovatively about creating tools that support people with additional needs… My mam’s attitude towards learning has always inspired me, and the Women’s Collective offered a really supportive learning environment.”

Since its launch, more than 5,000 students have completed the STEM Passport for Inclusion programme, and as the programme enters its next phase, it is aiming to support a further 5,000 while expanding to include TY boys, Youthreach learns, and women returning to education.

Research shows that after completing the programme, students show an eagerness to continue in STEM, with 79pc considering applying to study STEM at third level, while 76pc are considering a career in STEM.

Prof. Katriona O’Sullivan, speaking about the programme, said: “The continued growth of STEM Passport for Inclusion demonstrates its success in encouraging students from disadvantaged backgrounds to explore the wide range of opportunities available to them. Welcoming participants from Women’s Collective Ireland at this year’s graduation highlights what is possible when access to opportunity is expanded.”

Led by Prof. Katriona O’Sullivan at Maynooth University in partnership with lead and founding partner Microsoft, the STEM Passport for Inclusion programme is funded by Research Ireland, the Department of Education and Youth and Microsoft, as well as by many industry and education partners.

Graduation ceremonies will take place over three days, from 28–30th January, celebrating the achievements of 920 learners who have successfully completed the programme.