More than half of contributing parents are of the opinion that young people need a robust tech education early on, to prepare them for future careers.

STEM South West, a non-profit that promotes STEM education and careers, has published the results of a survey exploring how care-givers view technology knowledge among children. Particularly, in relation to how it is crucial in preparing young people for the future of work.

The results were issued to coincide with the launch of STEM South West Expo 2025, a free, all-day event open to schools and the public, in Cork City Hall on 20 November. The day will include hands-on exhibits, interactive displays and demonstrations on a range of topics shaping Ireland’s future, such as AI, VR and AR among others.

What was discovered is that 58pc of participating parents to children under 18, see technology as essential for equipping the next generation with the skills they need for the future.

With STEM South West estimating that at least 35pc of Ireland’s 972,000 primary and secondary students will need to pursue STEM education to meet future workforce requirements, parents were found to value skills such as creativity and problem solving (37pc), adaptability and lifelong learning (35pc) and technical STEM knowledge (28pc).

Commenting on the findings, An Taoiseach Micheál Martin, who was present at the launch, said, “Technology is an essential part of how we live and work. We need to teach children how to use it intelligently, creatively and safely. From coding and digital design to problem-solving and data literacy, these are the skills that will define the future workforce.”

Differing demographics

Despite more than half of contributing parents expressing their belief that tech is a crucial skill for young people on the verge of their professional lives, several participants were found to be dismissive of technology’s influence on a child’s future.

63pc of 25 – 34 year-olds said they believe technology is preparing children for the future but only 46pc of 18 – 24 year-olds said they feel the same way. According to the survey, “The remainder view it as more of a distraction”.

Men were discovered to be slightly more likely than women to see technical STEM knowledge as critical (30pc versus 25pc), while women tended to emphasise creativity and adaptability. Furthermore, participants in Munster were shown to have a more balanced view across all three skill areas, technical knowledge 31pc, creativity 33pc, and adaptability 34pc.

In contrast to Dublin, Connacht and Ulster, all of which ranked creativity highest, “reflecting perhaps the influence of urban innovation hubs and exposure to industries that prioritise problem-solving and creative thinking”.

Mary Good, the chair of STEM South West, who also spoke at the launch said, “These findings highlight the diversity of opinion across Ireland. Older millennials, who are embedded in tech-driven workplaces, may see the benefits, while younger adults, particularly those still in education, may be more aware of technology’s downsides, from screen addiction to overreliance.”

Good added, “The Expo is not just about showing technology, it’s about inspiring curiosity, creativity and critical thinking. Students see how their skills apply in real-world contexts, how STEM can help tackle challenges like climate change, healthcare, housing, and energy and why adaptability and creativity matter alongside technical expertise.”

“Ireland’s future as a global innovation leader depends on equipping the next generation with a combination of technical skills, creativity and adaptability. This survey highlights both the opportunities and the gaps and the Expo provides a platform to inspire students and give them the tools to succeed.”

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