Griffith’s Science on the GO! Outreach program received a boost today with a cash injection of $25,000 to further enhance its school activities on the Gold Coast.

The Science on the GO! program began in 2005 and provides Griffith University expertise to school groups, individuals and organisations within the broader science education community.

Run by Associate Professor Richard John from the School of Environment, the science program delivers on-site activities at both primary and secondary schools,including: development and delivery of practical/laboratory classes; delivery of specialised technical demonstrations/seminars; science shows; field trips and science trivia challenge.

Today’s cash sum was donated by local retired engineer, entrepreneur and philanthropist Jock Mcllwain. Having previously donated $50,000 for the original launch of Science on the GO! in 2005, Mr McIlwain said it was deeply satisfying to be part of such a crucial educational resource on the Gold Coast.

“Science and mathematics are fantastic subjects which hold much future career opportunity for our students. Promoting these subjects to students and educational leaders with the Science on the GO! program is just one way of

assisting Australia to compete on the scientific world stage.”

Today also saw Surfers Paradise State School Year 7 student Elijah Disch receive a ‘Beverley and Jock McIlwain Award for Excellence in Science’ for his academic achievement.

In formal recognition of Mr McIIwain’s input into the program, Griffith has produced this accolade which it has so far awarded to 35 primary and secondary school students in 2011.

Having recently been named the Best Entrepreneurial Educator of the Year at the

2011 Business/Higher Education Round Table (BHERT) Awards, Associate Professor Richard John has worked with state and local government on the Gold Coast, engaging with over 125,000 people, including 5,000 school science teachers.