A summer of STEM outreach at Glasgow Caledonian University

Glasgow Caledonian University is continuing to advance its commitment to inclusive and impactful STEM outreach through a series of summer programmes designed to engage and inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and digital innovators.

These initiatives blend academic insight with hands-on experience, helping young learners explore future pathways in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, while promoting diversity and widening participation in higher education.

SmartSTEM: Opening doors to innovation

On June 13, the University will mark a decade of working with SmartSTEMs by co-hosting an event to give young people fairer access to STEM.

Dr Salma Mohamed and Dr Yan Zhang from the Department of Computing have worked with the SmartSTEMs team to create an event that will welcome around 500 pupils for a day of hands-on learning and fun, engaging, practical experiences. With support from teachers, university staff and industry volunteers, pupils will explore different STEM subjects and hear directly from people working in the field.

This long-standing partnership between Glasgow Caledonian and SmartSTEMs is built on a shared commitment to equity of access. By working together over the years, we’ve helped thousands of young people, and particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, see what’s possible for them in STEM.

STEM Camp: A taste of university life

Running from June 24 to 26, the University’s annual STEM Camp offers a three-day residential experience for high-school pupils interested in STEM subjects. Now in its third year under the leadership of Dr S. Mohamed, the camp gives participants a genuine insight into student life at university.

Pupils stay in on-campus accommodation and take part in interactive workshops on topics such as programming, robotics and engineering. Evenings are reserved for social activities including bowling and pizza nights, helping to build a sense of community. Guest speakers from industry add another layer of real-world relevance, with this year’s programme featuring University alumnus Josh Robertson − now a Development Project Manager at SSEN Transmission and founder of Engineer a Career. Balfour Beatty will also lead a session, further connecting participants with STEM professionals.

Cyber Camp: Building confidence in cybersecurity

A more recent addition to summer’s outreach line-up is Cyber Camp, launched in June 2024. Taking place from June 17 to 19 this summer, this three-day residential programme was developed by Dr S. Mohamed to introduce high-school pupils − particularly young women − to the field of cybersecurity.

Participants will engage in workshops on ethical hacking, digital forensics, networks and programming, gaining practical skills and exposure to real-world cybersecurity challenges. One highlight last summer was the Cyber Heist Workshop led by Morgan Stanley, delivered by a team that included five Glasgow Caledonian cybersecurity graduates. Cisco also delivered an Incident Response session that saw pupils work in teams to solve simulated cyber threats. Both will be offering similar workshops this year.

As with the STEM Camp, to foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment, attendees are housed in university accommodation at Caledonian Court. Evening social activities complement the intensive daytime sessions, allowing participants to network and build relationships with peers and professionals in the field.

Dr S. Mohamed said: “From SmartSTEM to Cyber Camp, our outreach programmes are more than educational events − they are catalysts for change. Each initiative is designed to break down barriers, build confidence and show young people what’s possible through STEM. We are demystifying these subjects and highlighting the careers available. At Glasgow Caledonian University, we’re not just preparing students for the future − we’re helping them shape it.”

GCU Tech & Science Festival 2025

Taking place on June 10, the festival is aimed at inspiring S4-S5 pupils and their educators, offering interactive workshops, live demonstrations and opportunities to connect with STEM professionals. Rooted in the University’s Common Good mission, the festival promotes curiosity, innovation and social responsibility, showcasing how science and technology can help shape a fairer, more sustainable future.

Dr Ahmed Solyman, Lecturer in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, who will be running the festival, said: “The GCU Tech & Science Festival 2025 is more than a one-day event − it’s a celebration of learning, discovery and purpose. By opening our doors to young minds and their mentors, Glasgow Caledonian University reinforces its commitment to using knowledge and innovation to serve the common good and empower the leaders of tomorrow.”