Member Article

Youngsters Key To Region's Science Plans

Schoolchildren are being targeted as the drive to develop the North East as a world-beating centre for science steps up. Last year, the Government designated Newcastle as a Science City. This qualifies it as one of only six cities in the UK earmarked for extra Government support to develop their science and technology facilities.

Through the Science City Project, One NorthEast is sponsoring a series of lectures highlighting the benefits a career in the field can bring. The Holmes Lectures 2006 – Stoneage to Spaceage, are being presented by Newcastle University PhD students, and are headed by the University’s Matthew Partington. They have been organised ahead of the launch of the Science City Schools Engagement plan, which it is hoped will encourage more children to pursue the sciences at higher education level.

Chris Pywell, Head of Innovation, Industry and Science, said: “Improving the understanding the public has of science is vital if we are to grasp the opportunities presented by our universities and businesses through Newcastle Science City. “As part of the Science City project, we are currently developing a wide-ranging programme of education, public engagement and communication, all related to science. “The Holmes Lectures represent an early opportunity to enable young researchers to engage with school-aged children, enthusing them about science and its importance to our lives.”

It’s estimated that up to 100 new technology-based companies could be set up or attracted to the region by 2010, with as many as 5,000 jobs being created. To find out more about the Science City project, visit www.newcastlesciencecity.com.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .