The company said the project aims to help bridge the digital divide in East Anglia and beyond and will provide access to technology and resources that will encourage more 7–13-year-olds into science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Cambridge Science Centre, an independent charity, provides online science and technology experiences to push the scientific curiosity of 7–13-year-olds.
“Today is International Data Centre Day and now, more than ever, data centres are built into the very fabric of our everyday lives,” said Lee Myall, CEO, Kao Data.
“During the pandemic, they have not only provided infrastructure to drive vaccine research and development but have enabled us to work from home, stay connected and be entertained.
“We are extremely proud to be associated with Cambridge Science Centre and to work with an organisation that does so much to encourage children’s enthusiasm for STEM at a national level.
“Together we can work to highlight the role data centres play in society and inspire the next generation of technology talent within the UK Innovation Corridor.”
According to The Learning & Work Institute, the number of young people taking IT subjects at GCSE level has dropped by 40% since 2015.
As part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy, Kao Data said its aim is to drive greater awareness of the data centre industry.
Helen Slaski, CEO, Cambridge Science Centre said, “We are really delighted to welcome Kao Data to our Executive Council. It’s a challenging time for everyone involved in science in the UK right now, and, with the fundamental changes in children’s education over the last year, our work has taken on a whole new level of significance.
“With data being a key to most innovations, data centres, such as Kao Data, have been absolutely pivotal to our ability to stay connected and progress.
“We are looking forward to working with Lee and his team on this incredible opportunity and to continue to bring amazing, accessible and exciting STEM engagement to children across our region.”
