University of Limerick to host showcase to answer students' questions on all things science

FOLLOWING the successful series of events in March, ESB Science Blast, the RDS-led initiative fostering young scientific minds, is gearing up for its largest ever Limerick showcase.

The University of Limerick will host the event from May 20 - 22.  

Now in its sixth year, ESB Science Blast has engaged over 82,000 students across all 32 counties and underscores the growing enthusiasm for STEM education.

This year, the University of Limerick will host over 145 investigations from 104 schools and more than 3,600 primary school pupils. 

The event will see strong representation from counties Clare, Tipperary, Cork, Kerry, Waterford and Limerick, highlighting the widespread appeal of this unique educational programme.

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Niamh De Loughry, RDS Deputy Chief Executive – Foundation, noted: “We are truly humbled by the incredible response from schools this year, making this our biggest event in Limerick to date. It is inspiring to see the dedication of teachers and the boundless curiosity of pupils as they explore scientific questions in fun, hands-on and imaginative ways in our newest venue yet. ESB Science Blast continues to make STEM accessible and bring it to life for even more young people in the region, from a wide range of communities.”

Marguerite Sayers, Deputy Chief Executive, ESB said: "ESB Science Blast has been a transformative experience for thousands of students across Ireland, watching the record numbers come through for Limerick, it has the chance to be the best one yet. Supporting ESB Science Blast is one way we help nurture a diverse talent pool and encourage children to see the endless possibilities a career in STEM can offer. We are proud to extend our partnership with the RDS and continue our mission to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders,"

"The enthusiasm and creativity displayed by the students is truly inspiring. Every year, the vast array of projects highlights the curiosity of primary school children as they investigate the science behind simple but intriguing questions. We look forward to welcoming students and their teachers to ESB Science Blast in Limerick”.

The impact of ESB Science Blast extends beyond the showcase events. 

A recent national survey carried out by ESB and RED C Research highlights the strong parental support for STEM education with 80% of parents of primary school-aged children supporting participation in extracurricular STEM activities and 54% actively encouraging their children’s interest in STEM subjects. 

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The survey highlighted 78% of those in Munster feel a STEM career would create good job opportunities. 

While 49% feel there are equal opportunities for careers in STEM regardless of gender. 

Furthermore, 71% of participating pupils reported improved teamwork skills, 86% noted enhanced presentation skills and 81% felt more able to apply STEM to real-life situations.

ESB Science Blast directly addresses this by providing the platform for young learners to develop essential skills including critical thinking, collaboration and confident communication – skills that are also highly valued in the modern workforce.

The continued partnership between the RDS and ESB for a further three years reinforces the shared commitment to nurturing a scientifically literate and innovative future generation and strengthens the programmes reach and impact. 

ESB Science Blast champions inclusivity with a strong focus on ensuring equal access for all students, apparent in the significant participation from DEIS schools and Gaelscoileanna.

This highly anticipated event promises to ignite curiosity and celebrate the STEM explorations of thousands of primary school children from across Munster and beyond.