EirGrid and SciFest welcome launch of 2024 programme

Jenna O’Leary and Kate Byrne from St. Raphaela’s Secondary School, with Eoghan Larkin and Freeman Chu from Oatlands College

EirGrid, the operator of Ireland’s electricity grid, has welcomed the launch of SciFest 2024, at Oatlands College, Mount Merrion, Co Dublin, and invites entries from all students wishing to participate.

The SciFest programme is open to second-level students, with the aim of promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) education and providing a platform for students to present and display their scientific projects. 

There is no entry fee to take part in SciFest, making it highly accessible and inclusive to all schools across Ireland.

Speaking at the launch, Doireann Barry, head of strategy and sustainability with EirGrid, said: “Leading on sustainability and decarbonisation is central to our strategy. I’m delighted to attend today’s launch of SciFest’s Programme for 2024 as EirGrid continues to develop our partnership with SciFest. 

“We are proud to support the promotion of STEM subjects as the next generation is inspired to seek solutions to climate change and the energy transition.”

As a partner with Scifest, EirGrid aims to foster the interest and passion of young people in STEM and its involvement in sustainable development for the future. 

The competition serves as a great opportunity to reinforce the importance of renewable energy and inspire innovative ideas from this next generation.

Following a successful year of the partnership in 2023, which saw almost 12,000 students from schools across the country take part, the EirGrid Cleaner Climate award is again up for grabs.

The award is given to students whose project devises a creative, innovative approach to looking at energy from clean resources.

Students will present their findings at their school fair with the chance to reach at regional fairs, which will take place at third level institutions, and St Mary’s College in Derry, this coming April and May.

A selection of winners will then go forward to compete at the prestigious SciFest National Final this November. 

SciFest CEO Sheila Porter said: “We are thrilled to announce the return of SciFest for its 19th consecutive year, marking nearly two decades of fostering innovation and passion for STEM among Irish students. Our aim is not just to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators but to equip them with the critical skills needed in research, problem-solving, and communication. 

“We welcome entries from a wide array of scientific disciplines, encouraging students to explore their interests and curiosity in the sciences. We are not just celebrating science; we are preparing our students to be global leaders in innovation. We look forward to seeing the creative and impactful projects our students will bring to the 2024 competition.”

Dr Avril Gaynor, Oatlands College, said: “We are immensely proud to be launching SciFest 2024 at Oatlands College this morning. The competition continues to play a crucial role in STEM education by offering a unique platform for students to showcase their talents, creativity, and passion for the subjects.

“By participating in SciFest, our students are not only preparing themselves for future careers in STEM but are also contributing to Ireland's reputation as a hub of innovation and research excellence on the international stage.”