Students accept the science challenge

Scientifically minded high school students will put their skills to the test tomorrow (Tuesday 28 April) in the North Queensland Science and Engineering Challenge.

The Challenge is a nationwide STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) outreach program, hosted by James Cook University and run in conjunction with the University of Newcastle.

JCU’s Vivian Doherty, Regional Chair of the North Queensland Challenge Coordinating Committee, said the day was designed to give the students a more realistic idea of what a career in technology involved.

“It will test students with a range of fun science challenges, such as Mission to Mars and Grasping at Straws,” Ms Doherty said. “All the activities are designed to show them that science is both fun and practical.”

About 260 students from Years 9 and 10 will attend the event, at Edge Hill Primary School.

“As well as Cairns schools we have students coming from Gordonvale and Kuranda, and a there’ll be a combined group from Mt St Bernard’s College in Herberton, working together with students from Mareeba and Dimbulah,” Ms Doherty said.

“The Challenge is a fun event where students are able to experience the practical side of science and engineering. Theory is a vital part of this work, but it’s just as important to be innovative.

“We aim to inspire young people and show them that creativity is an integral part of any career in science and engineering.”

Issued: April 27, 2015

Media enquiries: Linden Woodward, 07 4232 1007, linden.woodward@jcu.edu.au