UK awards £13m to inspire next generation of scientists and engineers

Six science centres won grants after presenting ‘exciting plans’ to connect with people and communities

Six science centres across the UK have received £13 million in total funding to engage people with learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Catalyst in Widnes, Dundee Science Centre, Eureka! Mersey, Glasgow Science Centre, The National Space Centre in Leicester and Techniquest in Cardiff won the grants after presenting “exciting plans” to connect with people and communities who don’t currently visit science centres.

The money will enable the centres to create new learning activities to help reach audiences, improve their facilities and develop sustainable business models.

Industries in the UK, including energy, have warned about the skills shortage that must be addressed to keep up with demand – and encouraging the next generation to take up STEM subjects is a step forward.

Science Minister Sam Gyimah said: “We want to bring the wonders of science to as wide an audience as possible and that’s why it is at the heart of our modern Industrial Strategy. Today’s investment will help inspire people from across the country to learn about the truly amazing benefits that science and technology has on all our lives.”

The new funding is being delivering through the Inspiring Science fund, a joint initiative by Wellcome and BEIS.

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