Can OSS E/PO funds be used to support efforts directed towards higher education?
In general, no. OSS E/PO funds are intended to support K-12 education and public outreach rather than higher education. However, there are important exceptions such as undergraduate programs to enhance the science literacy of non-scientists and future K-12 teachers, and to increase the participation of minorities and other underutilized groups (e.g., women) in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Historically, OSS has placed a premium on training the next generation of scientists via the support of graduates and postgraduates in their usual scientific roles on research proposals. Science and engineering undergraduates have also become increasingly involved in OSS mission operations and scientific research. OSS support for future scientists and engineers is important and ongoing. However, there are other channels available to fund such activities, and they are not the focus of the OSS E/PO initiative. There are other aspects of higher education that are consistent with the
