Palmerston North City Council has launched a new programme to encourage young people to become excited about science, technology, engineering and math.

The four-week Tech Challenge programme is aimed at students in Years 7 – 10 (12 – 15 years of age), particularly those who may not yet have shown any interest or been exposed to technology-based subjects.

The programme involves teams of students tasked with solving a real-world problem using modern prototyping techniques including 3D modelling and 3D printing.

The four-week programme will give participants ‘hands-on' experience with practical activities such as soldering, constructing, prototyping and some small power tools using creativity and teamwork.

The Palmerston North City Library is hosting the challenge, which will run eight sessions spread over four weeks from 20 September to 14 October.

The programme will be led by Tyler Benson, a Massey University Bachelor of Engineering student who is conducting his final year project on establishing how extra-curricular programmes can encourage young people to become excited and see the relevance of studying science, technology, engineering and maths subjects.

Benson and the Palmerston North City Library staff ran a similar programme last year with a focus on robotics. This year's theme is rocketry mixed with an environmental approach.

Registration by 14 September is required and the number of participants is limited.