£250,000 to support Scotland’s science festivals
Science festivals will receive £250,000 of Scottish Government funding to support them in bringing science alive in a fun and accessible way, Science Minister Shirley-Anne Somerville has announced.
Fifteen festivals, which reach more than 200,000 people across Scotland annually, will benefit from the funding. These range from community-led events in rural areas to larger city-based events.
Ms Somerville (above, pictured recently at Heriot Watt) said: “Science festivals allow people of all ages, irrespective of gender or background, to interact with researchers, support science learning and promote careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. They help inspire not only our next generation of scientists, but also their families, adult learners and the general public.
“Science centres play a key part in this and I am pleased we are helping Dundee Science Centre to enhance its facilities and enable it to continue building on the great work it is doing, particularly in engaging hard to reach audiences.”
The Minister also announced new funding of £248,000 towards an interactive exhibition at the Dundee Science Centre which will showcase Dundee’s pioneering work in medical technology.
Linda Leuchars, CEO Dundee Science Centre, said: “We are delighted to have received this significant contribution from the Scottish Government towards our £2 million upgrade and expansion programme, which includes the introduction of a major new exhibition.
“This ambitious development not only adds huge value to the visitor experience but also reinforces our deserved reputation as a hub for lifelong science learning and public engagement within our community.”
Edinburgh International Science Festival was founded in 1989 and is perhaps best known for organising Edinburgh’s annual Science Festival, the world’s first public celebration of science and technology and still one of Europe’s largest.
The two-week festival gives audiences amazing experiences through a diverse programme of innovative events. Alongside the annual festival in Edinburgh, the organisation has a strong focus on education and runs a touring programme that visits schools around Scotland throughout the year.
This year’s event was a record-breaking success and plans are already underway for next year’s event, which runs from 31 March – 15 April.
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