Funding of €600,000 has been announced to support Science Week 2023, which kicks off today, November 12th. The funding will be allocated to the hosting of 15 festivals across the country, with the aim of celebrating and promoting the importance of science in our daily lives.
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris TD, highlighted the significance of Science Week, stating that the event serves to remind us of the impact and benefits of science. This year, Science Week will focus on the theme of Human? and encourages the public to consider what it means to be human in today’s world, particularly in relation to climate change, social interaction, and artificial intelligence. The goal is to raise awareness about these issues and their potential impact on future generations.
Science Week 2023, running from November 12th to 19th, will engage the Irish public in exploring the theme of HUMAN? and spark curiosity about how humans interact with each other and the environment. The funding for Science Week includes support of €644,330 for various regional projects, which contribute to the overall effort at the local and regional level.
In collaboration with the SFI Science Week Call, numerous projects spanning the sciences, arts, media, education, youth, and community sectors have been funded. These projects aim to broaden the reach and participation of people in Science Week by tailoring activities to suit different audiences and interests. Alongside the 15 Science Week Festivals, there will also be seven Science Week Targeted Events, which are smaller, specialized activities designed for specific audiences.
Director General of Science Foundation Ireland, Professor Philip Nolan, emphasized the profound impact of science on individuals, society, and the world. He encouraged the public to actively participate in Science Week, whether through attending local festivals, engaging on social media, or joining in with friends and family. Science Week provides a platform to reflect on what it means to be human in today’s world and to consider the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for future generations.
Science Week 2023 promises to explore various themes while promoting science and its benefits to the wider public. It is also an opportunity to recognize and express gratitude for the dedicated volunteers who consistently contribute to the success of Science Week.
For more information on the funded activities and events happening during Science Week, please visit https://www.sfi.ie/events/festivals/.
