Academy welcomes Nobel science education commitment

Australian Academy of Science President Professor Suzanne Cory has warmly welcomed Nobel Laureate Professor Brian Schmidt’s generous donation to the academy’s primary school science program, Primary Connections: Linking science with literacy.

The Australian astronomer and 2011 Nobel Prize in Physics winner has donated $100,000 of his Nobel Prize money to the education program.

“The academy is moved and very grateful that Professor Schmidt has made this generous donation to support quality science education in Australian primary schools,” said Professor Cory.

“By donating Nobel Prize money to Primary Connections, Professor Schmidt has sent an unequivocal and highly symbolic message that supporting science and science education is vital to the nation’s future.

“I hope this gesture will inspire others to make similar commitments to science and science education.”

Primary Connections was initiated by the academy to improve the quality of science education. The Australian Government invested significantly in the program’s initial development but from next year it will be wholly funded by the academy. This contribution will assist the program to eventually become self-sustaining.

“Primary Connections has been enthusiastically received by educators and students in state, catholic and independent schools throughout Australia,” said Professor Cory.

“Independent assessments have clearly demonstrated improved teacher confidence and competence and increased student engagement across all learning groups. Very importantly, this includes Indigenous children.

“Professor Schmidt’s donation will allow the academy to continue to train teachers and develop curriculum resources to deliver the new Australian Science curriculum.”

Professor Schmidt became a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science in 2008. He was awarded the 2011 Nobel Prize in Physics along with American scientists Professors Saul Perlmutter and Adam Riess.