Will.i.am tunes into science

The pop star Will.i.am launched a £500,000 initiative to boost the teaching of science, technology, engineering and maths for disaffected children at the Science Museum in London today, after he donated the money to the Prince’s Trust.

Under the initiative, staff from the Science Museum will visit Prince's Trust clubs in schools to work with young people who are at risk of exclusion or under-achieving.

The scheme follows a £500,000 donation to the Trust last year by musician will.i.am.

Will.i.am said: "Inspiring young people through science and technology is a powerful tool and I am proud to see my donation to the Prince's Trust being put into action to help engage disadvantaged youth who would not otherwise have access to technology and science education.

"These workshops are an amazing way to engage disadvantaged youngsters who don't have this sort of access to technology and science otherwise."

Prince's Trust chief executive Martina Milburn said: " A lack of computer literacy can hold young people back and this is damaging their job prospects. Without basic computer skills, young people will not be able to pursue career paths and passions because they can't get a foot in the door.

"With youth unemployment on the rise again, we need to arm our young people with the skills they need in today's tough jobs market. Stem (science, technology, engineering and maths) skills are a crucial part of this."

PA