Ireland’s Taoiseach Micheál Martin visited Google’s Foundry headquarters to recognize 39 students from underrepresented backgrounds who received prestigious Insight AI Scholarships, marking a significant step toward diversifying Ireland’s tech talent pipeline.

The scholarship program, launched during Google Ireland’s 20th anniversary celebrations in 2023, provides €5,000 annually to each recipient for the duration of their three or four-year undergraduate studies in STEM fields, including AI and cybersecurity.

The initiative represents a strategic response to Ireland’s current tech education landscape, where women constitute only 21% of STEM students, and merely 15% of disadvantaged students advance to postgraduate education, according to recent Higher Education Authority data.

The inaugural cohort demonstrates remarkable diversity, with students representing 15 Irish counties. Notably, 40% of recipients are women, and the group includes members of the Traveller community and students with disabilities, all pursuing various STEM disciplines across Irish universities.

Dublin City University (DCU) is coordinating the program through the Insight Research Ireland Centre for Data Analytics, with funding support from Google.org. The comprehensive initiative spans multiple disciplines, including computer science, digital business, and innovative programs like chemistry with AI.

Minister James Lawless, who attended the ceremony, participated in a panel discussion with DCU academics, exploring education’s crucial role in ensuring equitable access to digital opportunities. The timing is particularly relevant as AI is projected to contribute up to €45 billion to Ireland’s GDP over the next decade.

“For Ireland to harness the full benefits of AI and technological progress, it’s crucial for people from all backgrounds to access the latest digital skills,” stated Jessica McCarthy, Vice President of Engineering at Google, emphasizing the program’s significance in shaping Ireland’s tech future.

The scholarship program aims to address persistent barriers in accessing digital skills education while cultivating future leaders in AI and digital safety. Its comprehensive approach focuses on creating a more representative tech sector by actively supporting traditionally underrepresented groups.

Looking ahead, the program will continue to expand, offering more opportunities for students to participate in shaping Ireland’s technological advancement. Prospective students can find application information on Insight’s website, with new cohorts expected to join in the coming year.

This initiative represents a significant step toward democratizing access to tech education in Ireland, combining financial support with strategic diversity goals to build a more inclusive and technologically advanced society.

News Source: https://blog.google/around-the-globe/google-europe/taoiseach-visits-google-to-celebrate-the-future-of-irelands-tech-talent/