WISE website to promote science for women

A website designed to introduce women across Northern Ireland to the world of science, engineering and technology has been launched by the Minister for Employment and Learning, Carmel Hanna, at Belfast's Odyssey complex.

The WISE (Women Into Science and Engineering) website aims to promote science and engineering as a viable career option to young women, as well as encouraging the retention of female engineers and scientists in their professions.

Launching the site, the Minister said the website would be "a useful tool in providing young women considering careers in science, engineering and technology".

She said her department was committed to helping people overcome barriers to employability and she welcomed the opportunity of working alongside organisations like WISE Northern Ireland in order to provide access to high quality careers advice and information.

The website contains information about WISE events in Northern Ireland, a notice board and discussion forum giving the chance for female engineers and scientists to network with one another wherever they may be in the country.

Mrs Hanna said: "By accessing this website, women will benefit from the encouragement they receive and role models they learn about. Internet technology is now an integral part of life, providing a strong foundation for information gathering, decision making and career management."

Since the WISE campaign was launched in 1984, the percentage of female engineering graduates has risen from 7 per cent to 15 per cent.

For further information visit the WISE website at www.wiseni.org

(CG/GMcG)