Toowoomba youth to benefit from science funding

Published Friday, 17 March, 2017 at 06:03 PM

Minister for Innovation, Science and the Digital Economy and Minister for Small Business
The Honourable Leeanne Enoch

The Palaszczuk Government is supporting the establishment of a dedicated innovation space in Toowoomba to increase students’ science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills and employability.

Visiting Toowoomba today to celebrate World Science Festival Brisbane, Innovation Minister Leeanne Enoch said the Toowoomba STEM Enrichment Hub (the Hub) received $17,000 from the Advance Queensland Engaging Science Grant program.

Ms Enoch said the Hub, to be located at Centenary Heights State High School (CHSHS) in Toowoomba, would be an important resource for the entire region.

“The Hub will be a space for students to investigate and experiment with new ideas across all STEM fields and this will build all-important critical and creative thinking skills,” she said.

“These capabilities, together with a keen interest in STEM subjects and qualifications, will equip today’s students with the skills needed for tomorrow’s jobs.

“This grant is part of the $405 million whole-of-government Advance Queensland initiative, the Palaszczuk Government’s vision for the state’s future and an investment in a stronger economy.

“The kinds of jobs we require to be able to meet the needs of our state in the future are going to need new skills in STEM.”

Queensland Chief Scientist Professor Suzanne Miller said, “The Advance Queensland Engaging Science Grants program aims to increase the reach and impact of science in Queensland and boost the number of students enrolling in STEM subjects.”

“I’m delighted to hear the Hub will be open to all those who have an influence on high school and university STEM subjects – parents, experts and the local community.”

CHSHS Principal Maryanne Walsh said, “The Toowoomba STEM Enrichment Hub will create a motivating space that will enable learners to problem solve and innovate.”

“This initiative will be pivotal in the development of a whole-school and community approach to driving the STEM agenda for Toowoomba’s students and the regional community.”

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