Technology in education is vital if Ireland is to continue to attract foreign investment and nurture a highly skilled population, the Minister for Education and Science said today.
Speaking at the launch of the Primary Science Day, Dr Michael Woods said: "The use of technology in education and the value of education in technology, are naturally interwined".
He said Ireland’s long-term competitiveness depended on maintaining a high standard of education, which is the "biggest draw for foreign investment" and will ensure the continued growth in research jobs in technology and science.
Dr Woods presided over the English launch of the Primary Science Day as part of Science Weekat Bayside Junior National School in Sutton, Co Dublin. The Minister for Science, Technology and Commerce, Mr Noel Tracey, launched the Day in Irish at Scoil Ui Cheithearnaigh in Galway.
The focus of the day goes beyond jobs and education standards; it aims to revamp the sciences' image from being a difficult topic to an exciting, ever-changing and rewarding subject.
Tomorrow will see primary school teachers devote part of the day to science.
Science Week runs through this week with over 180 events nationwide to develop an interest in science, technology and innovation.
Yesterday saw the first of two Sunday Fundays,with events taking place at seven venues around the country.