Make science a priority this National Science Week

Science leaders have issued a call to action ahead of National Science Week — make science a priority and prepare for jobs of the future.

Queensland Science Minister Leeanne Enoch and 2017 Australian of the Year, Griffith University Professor Emeritus Alan Mackay-Sim, have both sent strong messages to the community urging them to embrace STEM — science, technology, engineering and maths.

Griffith University will launch Queensland’s National Science Week activities next week at Westfield Garden City with an insightful panel discussing remarkable science careers, as well as three days of entertaining activities and thought provoking presentations from leading scientists.

Minister Enoch said this was the week to celebrate the science all around us and in everything we do.

“STEM is at the core of Queensland’s innovation revolution, and it’s where we’re going to find the jobs of the future,” Ms Enoch said.

“We understand that no matter what job young Queenslanders take or make — from now into the years ahead — science, technology, engineering and maths will be crucial for forging a successful career.

“That’s why government, industry and our schools need to continue working together to increase science engagement levels and to drive home just how important science is for our state.

“During this National Science Week, I encourage all Queenslanders to get involved in the conversation about science, to take part in events, and to learn and have fun.”

Professor Mackay-Sim said we must make STEM education a priority because science, technology, engineering and maths will inevitably change tomorrow’s world.

“Give science a go and open your world up to endless discoveries and really interesting career opportunities,” he said.

From 10 to 20 August, Griffith will be showcasing the remarkable work of our researchers and the fun side of science across a wide range of events on our campuses, in the community and at the Ekka.

At Westfield researchers will be taking science out of the laboratory and into the public, kicking off with a bang on Thursday evening with the Science on the Go! team’s interactive science show. With events ranging from hands-on science activities for kids to stimulating discussions, there’ll be something for everyone.