The University of Queensland's Science Ambassador Program is marking a milestone 25th anniversary this month, recognising a quarter-century of connecting with year 11 science students across the state.
A celebratory event on Tuesday 7 July will honour more than 40 schools that have been members of the program for over 15 years, a testament to the lasting partnerships the initiative has built with educators and students alike.
Among the honourees, Cannon Anglican College and St Rita's College will be recognised for their remarkable commitment, having participated for more than 20 years.
Program coordinator for 25 years, Jackie Mergard, said over the life of the program more than 450 secondary schools have been involved.
“It has been wonderful to see so many students grow their communication and leadership skills and go on to pursue STEM tertiary education and careers.
“We now even have teachers who were UQ Science Ambassadors at school who are signing their schools up to provide more opportunities for their students,” said Mergard.
Since its founding, the program has mobilised almost 8,000 student ambassadors who have championed science within their school communities, reaching more than 500,000 of their peers.
Today, the program continues to grow, with 193 schools and 1,608 students participating across the state.
The program includes 54 schools from low-socioeconomic areas and 72 from regional Queensland, ensuring students outside major urban centres have the same opportunity to engage with science.
“For many students in regional Queensland, this program is their first real connection with a university.
“We want to inspire students from all backgrounds to consider studying science and connect with like minded students within their schools and beyond,” said Mergard.
That dedication to broadening science education has earned state recognition.
In 2023, the program received the Education Queensland STEM Education Partnerships Peter Doherty Award, one of the sector's most prestigious honours.
As the program enters its next chapter, its reach and impact stand as a compelling peer-led model for university-school partnerships in STEM education.
To find out more about the program, visit the UQ Science Ambassador Program website.
