SNP A9 scheme is path to success for science, technology, engineering and maths pupils
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THE message was clear at a major new conference in Aviemore this week – the bold new dualled A9 is the road to education, indeed the STEM of it.
The Scottish Government’s award-winning Academy9 schools initiative inspired by the dualling programme was the catalyst for the two-day event on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Academy9 – Building a Legacy brought together engineering, infrastructure and education professionals along with pupils from schools along the A9 to promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) education and employment opportunities for future generations.
The conference boasted a number of high-profile speakers from industry and education who are involved in inspiring the young.
Michael Matheson, cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity said: “When completed, the A9 Dualling programme will deliver major road safety and journey time improvements for anyone using the route between Perth and Inverness.
“Work is continuing across the route and road users are already benefiting from the first section to be dualled between Kincraig and Dalraddy, with construction of the second section between Luncarty and Pass of Birnam currrently underway and the detailed design work for other schemes continuing across the programme.
“However, while the benefits to road users are to be welcomed, we want to do lots more for the communities living along the A9 corridor and Academy9 provides the opportunity to invest in the country’s next generation of engineers, designers and construction workers.
“Through the different elements of our Academy9 initiative we have delivered learning to over 3800 pupils and 120 teachers in schools along the A9 corridor since its launch in 2015.
“This conference is bringing together professionals from infrastructure and engineering as well as professionals across the education spectrum.
“It is about much more than building a road and through Academy9 we are contributing to the development of a world-class workforce for the future.”
Alistair Wylie, head of qualifications – technology, engineering, and construction at SQA, said: “The qualification gives young people an introduction into the skills and knowledge they will develop, and the opportunities available to them if they pursue a career in civil engineering.
“The award is available to schools across Scotland, and should be of particular interest to those along the length of the A9 corridor, and it is great to see this first cohort of pupils from Breadalbane Academy embark upon the course.
“I hope to see more schools grasp this opportunity, and offer their pupils an insight into a career in construction.”
