The Department of Education, Microsoft Ireland, Research Ireland, and Maynooth University have joined forces to create the All-Ireland STEM Passport for Inclusion program. The service, which began as a test in 2021, was made available nationwide in December 2023.

A recognised credential, educational support, and industry role model mentoring are all included in the course.

More than 5,370 female students from DEIS schools throughout all four provinces have participated in the program since its inception, according to an impact report released today. 76% of these students are currently thinking about pursuing a career in STEM.

"Since its inception, I have had the good fortune to witness girls finish the program with a fresh perspective on their abilities; the STEM Passport for Inclusion has changed their self-perception," stated Dr. Katriona O'Sullivan, a lecturer in digital skills at Maynooth University. Microsoft is the primary industry partner for STEM Passport for Inclusion.