To fully leverage the benefits of AI and technological advancements, it is essential for individuals from all backgrounds to acquire the latest digital skills in Ireland. Recently, at The Foundry, we hosted Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation, and Science, James Lawless, to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of the inaugural recipients of the Insight AI Scholarship, a program designed to support students from underrepresented backgrounds in shaping the future of technology.

About the Scholarships

The scholarship program was launched in 2023 as part of Google Ireland’s 20th-anniversary celebrations. An extensive promotional campaign followed, ensuring the program reached those who could benefit most from this opportunity.

The efforts culminated in the recent event, where the first 39 students of the program received their awards from the Taoiseach. Each scholarship is valued at €5,000 annually for the duration of a three- or four-year undergraduate program, supported through a Google.org grant to Dublin City University (DCU), which coordinates the program through the Insight Research Ireland Centre for Data Analytics.

The students are enrolled in various courses across disciplines, including computer science, digital business, and chemistry with AI, at universities and colleges across Ireland.

Why It’s Important

The program’s significance is underscored by the reality that many communities in Ireland continue to face barriers in accessing key digital skills. According to a 2023 HEA report, women comprise only 21% of Ireland’s STEM student population, and merely 15% of disadvantaged students progress from undergraduate to postgraduate education.

The scholarship program invests in students to become future leaders in AI and digital safety, aiming to create a more representative field by supporting underrepresented groups. Notably, the first cohort of students comes from 15 counties across Ireland, with 40% of students in the first cohort being women, and participants with disabilities and members of the Traveller community, making the most of this AI opportunity.

At the event, Minister Lawless spoke before a panel discussion with DCU academics on education’s role in delivering equitable access to our shared digital future. The conversation couldn’t be more timely, given the significant societal and economic opportunities on offer. AI could potentially contribute up to €45 billion to Ireland’s GDP over the next decade, making it crucial to foster talent in this area.

What’s Ahead

Over the next year, more students will have the opportunity to participate in the program and contribute to creating a more equitable and technologically advanced Irish society. Those seeking more information and application details can find it on Insight’s website. We are proud to support this initiative and look forward to seeing the impact of these scholars.