‘Our vision is of a nation of world-class scientific achievement, a magnet for talent and for investment, a powerhouse of technology innovation and enterprise, increasing sustainable economic growth’. Science for Scotland, November 2008

Following on from the successful 2011 Science conference, plans are already well under way for Holyrood’s 'Science Scotland 2012' conference – an opportunity to consider plans to reassert science back into the heart of education and industry.

Science is one of Scotland’s largest exports yet many young people remain in the dark when it comes to STEM  (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects and are  unable to see how these can relate to their own lives.  This annual Holyrood conference will look at how we encourage young people to study STEM subjects and pursue careers in the science industry.  It  will hear from those involved in teaching young people science and those in the industry who believe that there is a skills gap developing in Scotland.  

Science  and other STEM subjects bring huge opportunities to modern society both economically and socially.  Furthermore, despite Scotland having more young people taking science subjects in school than the rest of the UK, many young people  are still unaware of the opportunities that exist .   How do we change this?    

 

Designed to bring together science teachers, education leaders, scientists and businesses this conference will be a platform to discuss how we ensure that Scotland has a workforce that it needs to meet its science needs, encouraging younger generations to pursue opportunities within the STEM subjects in order to create a Scotland that is able to respond to the challenges and embrace the opportunities of the 21st century.
 
Delegates will explore how Scotland can overcome the stereotype of scientists as middle aged men and encourage a wider uptake of young people studying STEM subjects.  We  will also look at the developing skills gap and how we avoid importing necessary skills from abroad . This will be especially important in ensuring that the Scottish Government meets its 2020 renewables targets. We will also consider the  roles businesses can play in promoting science to young people and funding science clubs.  

This is a must attend event for anyone with an interest in science and science education.