Northern Ireland’s science, technology and education sectors will take centre stage at this year’s ESB Science Blast Belfast showcase, with a strong line-up of organisations demonstrating how STEM is driving innovation across the economy.
Taking place on Tuesday 5 May at ICC Belfast, the event will feature interactive exhibits from the Ulster Museum, Marble Arch Caves, Kainos, Armagh Planetarium, W5, NI Water and NI Fire & Rescue – highlighting the breadth of STEM capability across heritage, environmental science and digital technology.
The showcase forms part of one of Ireland’s largest STEM engagement programmes, which will welcome more than 17,000 students this year and surpassed the milestone of 100,000 participants since its launch.
Paul Kelly, CEO at the RDS said: “The RDS was founded almost 300 years ago with a mission to see Ireland thrive, and there is no better way to advance that mission than by sparking curiosity in the next generation. As we surpass the significant milestone of 100,000 participants, we are proud to provide a platform that builds the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to support innovation for decades to come.”
Paddy Hayes, ESB Chief Executive added “ESB Science Blast encourages students to ask questions about the world around them and to explore innovative possibilities. At ESB, we are proud to be partnering with the RDS on this unique programme, empowering young people to be curious, to think critically, and to interact positively with STEM – for future us!”
Since launching in 2010 as the RDS Primary Science Fair, and evolving into ESB Science Blast in 2019, the initiative has engaged pupils from across all 32 counties, connecting classroom learning with real-world industry.
Amy Harrington, Science and Technology Programme Manager, RDS said “By supporting teachers to move beyond teaching the answer to ‘teaching the method’ we are future-proofing Ireland. We are also ensuring that children from all 32 counties, including DEIS schools, Gaelscoileanna and students with special educational needs, are equipped with the critical thinking skills that every CEO, doctor, solicitor and citizen will need by 2040.”
Distinct from traditional science competitions, ESB Science Blast is non-competitive, with every participating class receiving feedback and recognition. The programme maintains near gender parity and supports DEIS schools and Irish-medium education, widening participation in STEM.
With global industries increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, climate innovation and advanced technologies, the Belfast showcase underlines Northern Ireland’s role in nurturing the next generation of talent and strengthening the future skills pipeline.
//ENDS
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