Minister O’Keeffe opens science labs in Mitchelstown school

The Minister for Education and Science, Batt O’Keeffe TD, today [Monday] opened two new science laboratories in St Fanahan’s College, Mitchelstown, Co Cork.

The new laboratories are the result of an investment of more than €260,000 under the Department’s Summer Works Scheme.

Minister O’Keeffe said the laboratories would bolster the delivery of the school’s science curriculum for 135 second-level students and 110 adult education students.

‘Especially in these severely difficult economic times, we must continue to ensure a steady supply of science graduates.

‘Here in Cork, we have attracted eight of the top 10 global firms in the electronics, telecommunications, information communications technology, health and pharmaceutical sectors.

‘St Fanahan’s College has always promoted practical education among its students and these new laboratories will help the school to build on that record and prepare the next generation for the challenges of the smart economy,’ said Minister O’Keeffe.

He pointed out that World Maths Day, which will be marked this week, is an opportunity to renew our determination to improve take-up of higher-level Leaving Certificate maths and drive more students into science, technology, engineering and maths courses.

‘This year, we are investing €5 million in professional development for maths teachers in advance of the national roll-out of Project Maths this September - the Government’s curricular reform plan which will promote the everyday application of maths concepts and methodologies.

‘Higher Education Authority figures show Central Applications Office applications up over 8 per cent, with a 25 per cent jump in acceptances of science and computing courses.

‘While science is at its highest level of favour for a decade, we must continue our efforts to encourage more students to opt for science and technology-based programmes in higher education,’ said Minister O’Keeffe.