Courses
Thousands explore hands-on science during Science Week at ATU
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) is marking Science Week 2025 with a programme of public events, workshops and activities taking place across its campuses in Donegal, Sligo, and Galway.
ATU is welcoming thousands of visitors in its role in promoting science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) education across the West and North-West of Ireland.
ATU hosted the annual Science Fair Day at its Sligo Campus, in partnership with industry partner AbbVie, featuring talks, exhibitions, science shops and workshops. From making healthy protein bars and exploring a nuclear bunker, to exploring what the world looks like through the eyes of a bee, the day offered something to spark curiosity and inspire budding scientists of all ages.
Eamon Laird, ATU lecturer and coordinator of the Sligo Science Festival, said:
Science Week is an important opportunity for ATU to open its doors to the public and showcase the relevance of science in our daily lives. The response from schools and families this year has been exceptional, reflecting a growing curiosity and enthusiasm for STEM in our region.
ATU is also a founder member of the Galway Science and Technology Festival which brings together universities and local companies to promote STEM to schools and the public in Galway over two weeks. Des Foley, acting Vice-President for Research and Innovation at ATU, added: “Over the years, the annual festival has been a catalyst for awakening interest in STEM subjects as evidenced by the large numbers studying these subjects in ATU today.”
In addition, through the Rainbow Lab (Saotharlann an Bhogha Báistí) initiative, more than 60 schools nationwide received Rainbow Lab kits helping children explore key scientific principles like diffusion and colour mixing, all while making science fun and accessible.
Events in Sligo run until 16 November, while the Galway programme continues until 22 November. The full schedule is available at atu.ie/sciencefestival. All activities are free to attend and open to the public.
Photo caption: Ronan Devaney, Sligo.
Ivana Hanjs
Communications Officer
Tel: +353 89 963 9559
