Minister for Futher and Higher Education, Reseach, Innovation and Science joins Regeneron staff and MIC to open an interactive exhibition in the CRAFT Maker Space
Friday November 8th was a special day in the CRAFT Maker Space journey as the highly anticipated Regeneron Future Scientist Exhibition was launched by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Patrick O’Donovan TD.
Minister O'Donovan was joined by Acting President Prof Niamh Hourigan and Niall O’Leary, Senior Vice President and Site Lead at Regeneron in Limerick, amongst other MIC and Regeneron staff, and the 6th class pupils of An Modhscoil for the occasion.
Minister O’Donovan, a proud alumnus of MIC, reflected on the significance of the event:
"It is a privilege to return to MIC to officially open this exhibition, which I know will spark curiosity and fuel a lifelong interest in science among young visitors. Exhibitions like this play a vital role in shaping the scientists and innovators of tomorrow. Continuing to forge and strengthen partnerships between higher education and industry is crucial, so it's very positive to see those relationships working here today."
With Science Week beginning on November 9th, this timely alignment of the exhibitions opening, aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators by offering an exciting and immersive experience for young learners. It is specifically designed for primary school pupils and families from Limerick and the broader Mid-West region.
Through captivating displays and hands-on activities, young visitors delve into key scientific concepts such as sensory understanding, the role of sight, and an immersive exploration of what scientists do. By encouraging students to think critically, problem-solve, and approach challenges with a practical mindset, the exhibition seeks to foster a deep and lasting love for science from an early age.
This exhibition not only showcases the practical side of scientific experiments but also challenges young visitors to apply mathematical, engineering, and scientific thinking to real-world scenarios. From exploring the unseen world of germs to donning lab coats and experiencing life as a scientist, pupils are invited to engage with science in a fun and interactive way, discovering how it connects to everyday life. It was inspired by a similar collaboration between Regeneron and the Children’s Museum at Saratoga in upstate New York—where its exhibit there has been very successful.
Professor Niamh Hourigan, Acting President of MIC said the College was grateful for the generous support of Regeneron, a global leader in biotechnology, and its long-standing commitment to promoting STEM education in the community has played a critical role in making this interactive exhibition possible.
“MIC is delighted to partner with Regeneron to host this stimulating exhibition, which represents a unique opportunity for young people across the region to engage with scientific concepts in a meaningful way. It allows them to imagine, and immerse, themselves in the role of the scientist and all that comes with it—the excitement of discovery and the real-life applications of research. Regeneron’s commitment to making a difference in communities and supporting educational initiatives aligns closely with the mission of MIC and we look forward welcoming visitors into the CRAFT Maker Space to see this wonderful collaboration.”
Regeneron has also refurbished and launched science labs in schools across Tipperary, Clare, and Cork, reinforcing its dedication to fostering a deep connection between education and innovation.
Niall O’Leary, Senior Vice President and Site Lead at Regeneron in Limerick, emphasised the broader mission of the exhibition:
“As we celebrate 10 years in Limerick, Regeneron is excited to deepen our connection with the community through this partnership with Mary Immaculate College. Launching the science exhibition during Science Week 2024 is particularly meaningful, as it allows us to engage with local students and educators in a hands-on way. We believe in creating opportunities for curiosity and exploration, helping young people discover how science can impact the world around them. Through initiatives like this, we aim to contribute to a thriving STEM culture in the region, building a foundation for future discovery and innovation”.
Dr Maeve Liston, Director of Enterprise and Community Engagement at MIC—the office managing the CRAFT Maker Space and its activities added:
“This Industry-Education partnership between the CRAFT Maker Space and Regeneron involves a model of collaboration between experts in STEM education at MIC, and Regeneron, working together in co-creating, and co-delivering an interactive educational outreach experience. The exhibition, and the CRAFT workshops designed to complement the exhibition, are not only enjoyable and fun, but also reinforces what is being taught in the curriculum, extending learning beyond the classroom into real world contexts.”.
The exhibition is open for pre-arranged school visits over the coming months which can be booked by emailing craftmaker@mic.ul.ie or using the contact form here.
It is also open to the public on Saturday afternoons from 2 o'clock to 4 o'clock until December 7th. Pre-booking is essential and can be made here. (you will be redirected to EventBrite)
