Atlantic Technological University Magazine - Issue 14
Editor: Anne Donnelly
Design: The Foundation
Photography: Alison Laredo, Anna Leask, James Connolly, Jessica Priddy, Mike Shaughnessy, Clive Wasson, Aengus McMahon. Lauren Fitzgerald, Paul McGuckin, Brad Anderson, Tommy Weir, Katarina Rozvadska, Conor Doherty and ATU staff
Cover photo: Two-year-old Liam and his Granny Sheila O’Keeffe enjoying the Baby Dance Session at an Intergenerational Festival, Creative Generations held in ATU Sligo in April. Photo credit: Anna Leask.
Contributors: ATU Communications team, Lauren Reynolds, Jessica Duffy, Orlaith Ní Mheachair, Kieran Ryan, Úna McCarthy, Mary Nestor, Ehiaze Ehimen, Graham Heaslip, Eve-Anne McCarron, Michelle Reynolds, Carina Ginty, Michael Gill, Séan McGarvey, Gerald Gavin, Ellen McCabe, Amaya Vega and Kate Brown.
LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK: If there is anything you would like to see in future issues of this magazine, please email anne.donnelly@atu.ie
01
Welcome from the Editor
03
University Updates
- Spring Conferrings
- Minister officially opens €35 million developments at ATU
- Over 50 Subsidised Springboard+ Courses at ATU
09
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
- The Experiences of LGBTQ+ Students in ATU
- ATU’s New Gender Identity and Expression Policy
14
Research News
- ATU and University of Galway Showcase Transport Research
- Strengthening Humanitarian Response Capacity
- Research Spotlight –Dr Ehiaze Ehimen
19
Innovation and Engagement
- Meet our new Head of Knowledge Transfer
- New Frontiers Showcase Awards
- Exciting Opportunities for Women in Gaeltacht Regions
- New Programme for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
- Practical Skills Programme for Owners and Managers
- Minister Launches new UN Tourism Initiative at ATU
- Donegal meets Massachusetts
- International Nurses Day - Strengthening Global Connections - Celebrating Intergenerational Creativity - ATU Poetry Competitions Winners - Healthy Home Chef Competition with Celebrity Chef Neven Maguire - Two ATU Book Launches - Turning the Sod
Welcome from the editor, Anne Donnelly
Dear Reader,
I am delighted to welcome you to issue 14 of our ATU Magazine.
Our cover photo for this issue is of two-year-old Liam and his Granny Sheila O’Keeffe enjoying the Baby Dance Session at an Intergenerational Festival, Creative Generations held in ATU Sligo in April. When I saw the photo, I knew that it was perfect for this issue, keeping in mind that ATU is also two years old, and we are being guided and influenced by the wisdom and strong tradition built up over decades in our legacy institutions as we navigate our way through the constantly evolving world that we live in.
June is Pride month and ATU will be marching in Pride parades across the west and northwest over the summer. In this issue, we showcase some of our students’ work in our recent photography and sketching competition which gave our LGBTQ+ students an opportunity to share their experiences of ATU.
Our research spotlight in this issue is on Dr Ehiaze Ehimen and his research into energy efficiency and energy poverty in marginalised communities. We also meet our new Head of Knowledge Transfer, Dr Kieran Ryan who is on a mission to ensure that the new knowledge generated through research at ATU is brought into the world where it can make a real impact, both to the economy and society.
There has been much to celebrate in the last three months including International Nurses Day, ATU’s two poetry competitions, book launches, Healthy Home Chef competition winners, and turning the sod on ATU’s new sheep housing and handling facility on our Mountbellew campus. You can read more about all these in our ATU Celebrates section.
The purpose of this magazine is to keep you updated on our activities and initiatives. So, whether you’re a
member of our student or staff body, or are one of our regional, national or international stakeholders, we hope you find something of interest here.
Happy Pride month and I hope you all have a lovely summer.
Best
Wishes
Anne Donnelly
“ If there is anything you would like to see in future issues of this magazine, please email me at anne.donnelly@ atu.ie ”
Focal ón Eagarthóir
A
chara,
Tá fíor-áthas orm fáilte a chur romhat chuig an 14 eagrán d’Iris OTA.
Ar chlúdach tosaigh an eagrán seo tá Liam, atá dhá bhliain d’aois, agus a mhamó Sheila O’Keeffe agus iad ag baint sult as an seisiúin damhsa do leanaí a bhí ann mar chuid den Fhéile ó Ghlúin go Glúin (Intergenerational Festival) a reachtáladh ar champas Shligigh i mí Aibreáin. Bhí a fhios agam ar an bpointe nuair a chonaic mé an grianghraf go raibh sé foirfe don iris, ag cuimhneamh go bhfuil OTA dhá bhliain d’aois freisin, agus muid á threorú agus faoi thionchar an chríonacht agus an traidisiúin láidir a tógadh le blianta fada sna hinstitiúidí a bhí ann romhainn agus muid ag déanamh ár mbealach tríd an domhan seo atá de shíor ag athrú.
Is é mí an Mheithimh Mí an Bhróid agus beidh muintir na hOllscoile ag máirseáil ag paráidí Bróid ar fud an iarthair agus an iarthuaiscirt i rith an tsamhraidh. Caithfear súil san eagrán seo ar chuid d’obair
na mac léinn a bhí le feiceáil ag an gcomórtas grianghrafadóireachta agus sceitseála le déanaí, comórtas a thug deis do mhic léinn LADTA+ an taithí a bhí acu in OTA a roinnt.
Díreofar aird san eagrán seo ar obair an Dr. Ehiaze Ehimen agus an taighde atá déanta aige ar éifeachtúlacht fuinnimh agus ar thearcrochtain fuinnimh i bpobail imeallaithe. Cuirfimid aithne freisin ar an Dr. Kieran Ryan, an Ceannasaí Aistriú Eolais nua, atá ar a dhícheall a chinntiú go dtabharfar an t-eolas nua a ghintear trí thaighde in OTA chun solas chuig áit inár féidir leis fíorthionchar a imirt ar an ngeilleagar agus ar an tsochaí araon.
Bhí neart ábhar ceiliúrtha againn le trí mhí anuas ina measc Lá Idirnáisiúnta na nAltraí, dhá chomórtas filíochta, seoltaí leabhar, buaiteoirí an chomórtais Healthy Home Chef agus iompú an chéad fhód ar áis nua tithíochta agus láimhseála na gcaorach ar champas an Chreagáin. Is féidir tuilleadh eolais a fháil ar na nithe sin uile faoi ‘ATU Celebrates’.
Tá sé mar aidhm leis an iris seo daoine a choinneáil ar an eolas maidir leis an méid atá ag tarlú ar fud na hOllscoile, idir gníomhaíochtaí agus tograí. Mar sin, más ball foirne nó mac léinn atá ionat, nó dream dár bpáirtithe leasmhara réigiúnacha, náisiúnta nó idirnáisiúnta, tá súil againn go bhfeicfidh tú rud éigin a mbeidh suim agat ann.
Ag guí Mí an Bhróid sona oraibh uile agus tá súil agam go mbeidh samhradh álainn agaibh ar fad.
Le dea-ghuí, Anne Donnelly
“ Má tá nithe faoi leith ar mhaith leat a fheiceáíl sna heagráin atá le teacht, is féidir teagmháil a dhéanamh liom anne.donnelly @atu.ie ”
ATU Spring Conferrings
In April and May of this year ATU hosted its Spring conferring ceremonies in Galway and Donegal. Galway and Mayo registered students were honoured in Galway, and students from Sligo, St Angelas, and Donegal were honoured in Letterkenny.
The ceremonies were for students who had completed major awards since the last ceremony in November 2023 and accommodated students from academic levels, ranging from Level 6 Higher Certificate to Level 10 Doctorate Degree.
Over 250 students graduated in various disciplines, including Accountancy, Nursing, Cyber Security, and Supply Chain Analytics. The graduates included five PhD recipients and six Master’s by Research graduates.
“ In ATU we recently celebrated our second birthday as a new technological university –those two years have flown, and it’s good to reflect on what we have achieved together as a community of learners, staff and graduates. But our best impact in our region is actually through you, our wonderful new graduates. Through your talents and hard work, you will be the change that we need to see across our region. We are so proud of your achievements, and we are confident that you have the knowledge, skills, and competencies to achieve your career goals.”
Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President addressing graduates at ATU’s Spring Conferrings
Graduating with a Master’s by Research Ameer Ahmad and family pictured with Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President; Thomas Dowling, Head of Faculty Engineering & Technology; Karen Bailey, Research Supervisor and Dr Billy Bennett, VP, Academic Affairs and Registrar, ATU.
Shayan Chege, Graduate of the Higher Certificate in Engineering in Biomedical Engineering, with Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President.
Gizem Tuna, Graduate of the Master of Science in Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing
The first graduates of the Higher Diploma in Arts in Food Business and Product Innovation, supported by the Local Enterprise Office (LEO): Adrian Boyle (Blistered Bread) and Karoline Sweeney (Rathmullan House).
to right: Dr Dolores Byrne,
Dr Margaret O’Riordan, ATU Mayo; Dr Verena Bernard (who was conferred with her PhD in Environmental Science); Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President and Dr Billy Bennett, VP for Academic Affairs and Registrar, ATU.
and Sales, with his family.
Left
ATU Sligo;
Dylan Buckley, Graduate of the Bachelor of Business in Marketing
Pictured with her family, Signe Martin who graduated with a Degree of Doctor in Philosophy.
Bridie Coleman and Claire Healy, both ATU staff, graduating with a Higher Diploma in Business Information Systems, pictured with Dr Orla Flynn ATU President and Dr Billy Bennett, VP, Academic Affairs and Registrar, ATU.
Minister officially opens €35 million developments at ATU
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation, and Science, Patrick O’Donovan, TD, officially opened three significant developments at ATU’s Sligo campus on 28 May. The substantial extensions and refurbishments, part of the university’s response to growing demand, were funded under Project Ireland 2040 through the Higher Education Authority.
The developments feature a new four-storey, circa 4,000 square meter extension, designed to accommodate advanced research, science, and IT facilities, including computer laboratories and a stateof-the-art clean room. Additionally, the North Campus now boasts a new 112-seat theatre and performance space, and an arts and design building which will become a beacon of culture for the west and northwest region.
In total, over 8,600 square meters of space have been developed and refurbished to the latest energy standards, with all three projects having been successfully delivered within budget.
Speaking at the launch, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation, and Science, Patrick O’Donovan, TD, said: “Today marks a significant investment and enhancement of education facilities for Sligo and the northwest
to greatly improve the learning experience of students in this region. The new EO1 project along with the refurbishment of blocks K & L represents a key phase of ATU’s Sligo campus development. I’d like to thank Mr Ciarán McCaffrey and all the team in the Higher Education Authority for their dedication and hard work on this project and also for their support to the institute.”
Ciarán McCaffrey, Head of Capital Programmes in the HEA added: “Today’s opening of the newly refurbished Yeats Academy Buildings and new Academic Building is an exciting development for ATU and the wider northwest region.
“This project is being delivered under Project Ireland 2040 which recognises that investment in education is central to achieving a strong, future-proofed economy, balanced across the regions, and a just society in which all citizens are enabled to fulfil their potential.”
Accommodation within the new main campus facility comprises a mix of teaching and research spaces, including undergraduate and postgraduate science laboratories, clean rooms, PC laboratories, project rooms, classrooms, research facilities, online learning spaces, as well as staff and ancillary accommodations. It also includes a Maker Space, funded via the Human Capital
Initiative (HCI) which will support project-based learning and facilitate STEM outreach to schools.
The two newly refurbished buildings, part of ATU’s Yeats Academy of Arts, Design and Architecture (YAADA), includes Block K, which has been transformed into a creative hub, designed to foster collaboration among art and design students. Adjacent to this development, Block L, includes a 112-seat theatre, two “Black Box” performing arts centres, a dance studio, art and design studios, classrooms, office space, and a canteen for students and staff.
These developments mark a significant milestone in the ongoing growth and modernisation of ATU, ensuring that it continues to provide state-of-the-art facilities for its students and staff.
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Patrick O’Donovan TD, cuts the ribbon at the official opening of the new development at ATU with Una Parsons, Head of College at ATU Sligo and Dr Orla Fynn, ATU President.
These new developments funded under Project Ireland 2040, through the HEA, mark a significant milestone for Atlantic Technological University. The state-of-theart facilities will greatly enhance our research, science, and IT capabilities, and offer a space for the creative arts by providing our students and staff with the resources they need to excel. We welcome Minister O’Donovan to ATU and thank him for officially opening our new facilities.”
Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President
EO1, part of the €35m new development at ATU Sligo.
Over 50 Subsidised Springboard+ Courses at ATU
ATU is offering 55 Springboard+/HCI funded courses in Science, Technology, Engineering and Business disciplines under the 2024 Springboard+/HCI Pillar 1 Programmes.
Co-funded by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and the European Union, the ATU approved courses are free for unemployed or returning participants for all levels and for all participants on Further Education (L6) programmes.
For those in employment or selfemployed L6 programmes are fully funded and there is 90% funding available for participants opting to study ordinary degree (L7), honours degree/higher diploma (L8) or postgraduate (L9) level courses.
The 55 ATU Springboard+/HCI courses will be delivered across the University’s campuses in Donegal, Sligo, Mayo and Galway, with many delivered part-time, online and offering a flexible learning approach.
Welcoming the launch of the Springboard course list for 2024/25, Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President said: “ATU’s impressive suite of subsidised Springboard courses is reflective of our ongoing commitment to lifelong learning and the employability of our students.
“Our university continues to develop and deliver programmes that address the evolving needs of industry, both regionally and nationally, covering a wide spectrum of disciplines, such as culinary arts, automation, electric vehicle technology, MedTech, biopharmaceuticals, cybersecurity and more.
“Our Springboard courses also recognise the needs of individuals
looking to upskill, and our parttime, flexible study options have been specifically tailored to suit the personal and professional commitments of learners.”
Springboard+ is now accepting applications for courses starting in September 2024 and January 2025. Applications can be made on the Springboard+/HCI website which you can access by clicking here.
Further course details are available through the ATU website which you can access by clicking here.
ATU’s Springboard+ Coordinators: Peter Butler, Catherine O’Reilly and Steven O’Donnell.
Our students’ experience of our Springboard courses
“Before starting the Springboard course, I was working in various medical device companies, usually on the production floor as a Product Builder and I wanted to progress. Zimmet Biomet at the time gave me an amazing opportunity to work in Document Control, and I decided to take that challenge, but I felt that I didn’t have enough knowledge and wanted to fulfill the role as best as I could.
To do that, I felt I needed further education, and this is why I looked into the courses for Regulatory Affairs, and I came across the course in ATU. I was very nervous when I started, but ATU gave me so much support. My lecturers inspired me and supported me to complete the course. It was such a nice atmosphere and I really enjoyed being part of it. It was the best decision that I ever made and the best life adventure that I have had so far.”
Renata Bieniek, ATU Galway-Mayo
“I previously studied Transport Management and Tourism, I worked as an administrative assistant, and I had jobs in offices or at reception –totally different fields to pharma! When I was looking for a course for the biopharmaceutical industry, I was looking for something very flexible. I had a full-time job and a one-year-old baby, so this online course was perfect for me.
The lecturers were really helpful, and the lessons were recorded. This was great because if you were unavailable to attend the lessons you could watch them in your own time. As a result of the course, I’m delighted that I now work as a Supplier, Quality Engineer, and Internal and External Auditor.”
Marcela Hutnikova, ATU Sligo
“Before starting the course, my educational background was an Engineering Degree in Electronics and Telecommunications, with 14 years of professional experience in the IT sector.
The Springboard course I opted for was very good. The tutors were great, they helped me a lot throughout the course. After completing this course, I was able to apply my learnings in my actual job which worked well.
Because of this, I was promoted to the role of Test Director. I was handling a team of eight and now I’m handling a team of 26, so it is a huge jump. For this immediate success, I would give full credit to the Springboard course I completed at ATU.”
Monish Pawar, ATU Donegal
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The life of an LGBTQ+ student at ATU
ATU recently ran a photography and sketching competition organised by lecturer Dr John McCarvey and was an opportunity for LGBTQ+ students to share their experiences of ATU.
John was interested in using photography and sketching as a medium to explore how LGBTQ+ students felt about ATU. Many of the entrants commented on their positive experiences and how they feel welcome in ATU.
The students’ photos and sketches highlight themes of inclusion, togetherness, happiness, respect, difference, shared experiences and love. To quote one entrant, “We can’t always choose who we love but we can choose who we respect”.
The winners were in first place Angelika Matzjaszcyk, second Margaret Cahill and third Hazel Gibbons.
My sketch with the raised hand holding interconnected puzzles symbolise unity and collaboration, visually representing the strength and cohesion that emerges when all students work together to solve challenges. ”
Angelika M.Zlotek
At ATU you can be whoever you are and whoever you want to be. You can dance with anyone! ”
Photo by Aine McGlone
This photo holds a simple but influential meaning to me. The vision of equality is transparent through the playful and lively sign that transcribes an open and accepting message of love from all stances. It embodies a diverse environment through the subtle yet significant appearance of global flags united in the background.
Sometimes, the appearance of love is twisted into something complex and convoluted within the media, but in all honesty, it’s not. The idea is quite simple when considering its root and core aspects. Love has many different shapes and forms, not because of the people we love but because of the reasons we cherish them. Those reasons hold the most importance in the context of love, and nobody can take that away from us.”
The importance behind this work is to showcase how ATU creates a welcoming community and safe space within the college. While also showcasing, that being LGBTQ+ is not always a loud show of identity but sometimes it can shine more in the quiet and normal moments. ATU makes its LGBTQ+ student feel welcomed and gives us a sense of community. Similar to a sports team, LGBTQ+ people come from all walks of life but come together for the same cause.”
Hazel Gibbons
Chloe Condon
This photo incorporates the perspective of many from the LGBTQI+ community and elaborates on the idea that love and respect base themselves around the eyes of the beholder. We, as human beings, do not choose who we are attracted to or who we feel connections and bonds with. Misconceptions within society are as though the views of LGBTQI+ members are different from others, as if their perspective is tinted or shaded. Regardless of these claims, the concept of love and attraction is universal and personal to the individuals themselves. We can’t always choose who we love, but we can choose who we respect.”
Zainab Ajiboye
I did my art piece in pencil about Inclusion and how the LGBTQI+ community feels happy about ATU. ”
Kolin Thazhathupuram
Photo by Margaret Cahill, Computing and Digital Media Student.
ATU’s New Gender Identity and Expression Policy
We are delighted to announce that ATU’s Governing Body recently approved a new Gender Identity and Expression policy for the University. Mary Nestor, EDI Manager at ATU talks to us about the new policy and what it means for students and staff.
Legal gender recognition has been available in Ireland since 2015 and provides a process for an individual to change the gender marker on their birth certificate and be legally recognised by the State in their true gender.
Ireland’s legislation is based on selfdetermination (i.e. with no medical or state intervention required) and is one of just six countries in the world to take this approach.
The purpose of the Gender Identity and Expression Policy is to support ATU students and staff in expressing their gender identity and expression without fear of adverse consequences, and to work to ensure that the University environment, including the physical environment, is positive, safe, and non-discriminatory. The policy affirms people’s right to selfdetermination and their own unique identity and recognises the diverse range of gender identities.
In terms of background, there has been sustained demand for this policy from a small cohort of students over the last number of years. Based on the recent level of enquires from students, the main area of request is from students who wish to use a preferred name to reflect their gender identity. This policy is in response to the needs of students, and has been driven by them, and also by their lecturers, support staff and the Students’ Union, who have been advocating on their behalf – it’s a policy that is really important to students.”
Mary Nestor, EDI Manager, ATU
At a recent HEA conference, Colette Murphy, the Vice-President for Welfare at Union of Students of Ireland (USI) said that Gender Identity and Expression is the most pressing issue that students are concerned about at the moment and represented the highest number of enquiries they received.
What the new Gender Identity and Expression policy means in practice
The policy is about respecting someone’s individuality and enabling them to express it in the ATU community, should they want to. Information on a person’s transitioning process is private and should not be disclosed unless you have permission to do so.
Trans activist and campaigner Dr Lydia Foy referred to the constant fear of being outed on official documentation as horrendous, and that having to explain something so private and personal and intimate was very upsetting, unnecessary, and almost inhumane.
Who to contact if you have a query about the new policy
If students have a query about the new policy, they may contact the EDI Office and staff may contact the HR Office. Ongoing support for staff will be available with training, including training on the use of pronouns and inclusive language.
Colleagues from across the University, including staff in the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Office, Banner Integration Office, IT Services, Library, Academic Affairs, Student Services and Human Resources (HR) have worked together on a new procedure that will implement the policy. This is another positive step to continuing our work to make ATU a more equal, diverse and inclusive community for everyone.
The new Gender Identity and Expression Policy supports a small cohort of students who have been looking for this recognition over the recent years – we recognise that the language and terminology can seem challenging, and that there has been a high pace of change in recent years, but want to assure staff that supports and training are available, and then in turn, we can support students at this time in their lives.”
Mary Nestor, EDI Manager, ATU
ATU at the Inishowen Pride Parade in Buncrana on 2 June.
Research News
ATU and University of Galway Showcase Transport Research
Members of the EMBRACE Mobility project which included lecturers and researchers from ATU and University of Galway presented their research at the Transport Research Arena (TRA), the premier European transport and mobility conference hosted this year in the RDS by the Department of Transport in April.
TRA is a major European transport event that covers all transport modes and all aspects of mobility. The theme of the conference was Transport Transitions: Advancing Sustainable and Inclusive Mobility.
EMBRACE-Mobility is a Sustainable Communities Challenge project funded by Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) which aims to prototype a decision support tool for prioritising bridge maintenance with a focus on rural community accessibility.
Launched in September 2023, EMBRACE Mobility is now in the second phase of the project. The project team are engaging with stakeholders to capture and shape innovative ideas that ensure rural connectivity and promote more sustainable, resilient communities in Ireland.
The research team includes Dr Amaya Vega, Senior Lecturer, School of Business, ATU Galway; Dr Myra Lydon, Lecturer, School of Engineering, University of Galway; Dr Amanda Trojan Fenerich, Postdoctoral Researcher, School of Engineering, University of Galway and Miss Aradhan Yadav, Research Assistant, School of Business, ATU Galway.
Dr Amaya Vega said: “Investments in transport infrastructure can have positive cascading effects across local communities enabling the movement of people and goods and supporting access to education and essential services. Disruptions in transport infrastructure can disproportionally impact rural communities, particularly those along lifeline roads. Peripheral rural areas are particularly vulnerable to reduced accessibility to key public services, which often results in unemployment and the depopulation.”
At the TRA conference the team shared their research and progress with key transport stakeholders, including the Road Management Office and the Department of Transport and also participated in panel discussions on sustainable transport in rural areas.
The EMBRACE Mobility project offers a solution to integrate bridge maintenance data with local road network and socioeconomic information to consider the risk and vulnerability of bridge failure across local communities immediately affected by these disruptions.”
Dr Amaya Vega, ATU’s PI and co-lead of the EMBRACE Mobility project
Left to right: Dr Amaya Vega, ATU Galway; Dr Amanda Trojan Fenerich, University of Galway and Dr Myra Lydon, University of Galway.
Strengthening Humanitarian Response Capacity
The ongoing Gaza crisis, Syrian crisis, and war in Ukraine are all examples of events which cause significant disruptions to humanitarian supply chains.
While those working in the humanitarian field know that such events will occur, their timing and location can be difficult to predict. This leads to the emergence of unexpected demand for products and short lead times for supplies and the ‘6W Problem’ of ‘Who Wants What Where When and Why’.
The humanitarian field faces the challenge of de-coupling financial and material flows (separating the movement of money from the movement of physical goods or products). Aid agencies must second guess the needs of the beneficiaries who are frequently solely focussed on the business of staying alive – and yet, at the same time, the agencies must satisfy the demanding governance requirements of the donor community.
The risks involved with deliveries, and the shortage of human, physical and financial resources not only add to the difficulties of managing humanitarian logistics, but also compound them. The infrastructure surrounding a disaster will be devastated to a greater or lesser extent. Thus, generic prescriptions such as the substitution of information for inventory face a particular challenge in this environment. It is estimated that 80% of expenditure of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in humanitarian operations is related to logistics.
Collaboration with the
UN Global Logistics Cluster and ECHO
Professor Graham Heaslip, Head of College and School of Engineering at ATU Galway-Mayo is involved in a project which seeks to address this problem by mapping capacities of stockpiles to determine what stockpiles individual agencies have and where these stockpiles are located so that demand can be met in the humanitarian sector. The project will assist the coordination of humanitarian relief efforts worldwide.
The project is in collaboration with the UN Global Logistics Cluster and the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) and has two primary objectives:
• To map the systems used by various stakeholders including NGOs and governments for the purpose of tracking, monitoring, and visualising their stockpiles.
• To map the capacities and operational modalities of common logistics service providers investigating Stockpile Mapping, Prepositioning and Common Logistics Services.
About the UN Global Logistics Cluster
The UN Global Logistics Cluster is part of the cluster system established by the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC). Due to its expertise in humanitarian logistics, the IASC designated the World Food Programme (WFP) as the Logistics Cluster’s global lead agency.
The Cluster strengthens humanitarian response capacity, especially in high-risk countries and regions. In crises, where local capacities have been exceeded, the Cluster provides leadership, coordination, information management and access to common logistics services.
After crises, the Cluster evaluates the response, identifies areas for improvement, shares good practices and solutions, and invests in learning and preparedness for future emergencies.
Upskilling staff to enhance their disaster response preparedness
Professor Heaslip is also involved in a project in collaboration with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) Pacific MultiCountry Office in Fiji. This project seeks to develop a Humanitarian Logistics Competency Framework to assist WFP upskill staff to enhance their disaster response preparedness in Fiji. This work is based on a paper titled, ‘Supply chain and logistics competencies in humanitarian aid’, written by Professor Heaslip and colleagues. Please click here to read the paper.
One organisational tactic designed to enhance individual skills and align them with organisational needs is to develop a competency framework, but to date, no technical competency framework has been developed to describe the skills required for humanitarian logistics preparedness, response and recovery.
This is important, not least because logistics represents a sector within the humanitarian system that is experiencing serious gaps in capacity including a lack of skilled staff.
Lessons learned from past humanitarian aid efforts
The inability of aid organisations to properly plan and organise their work may have led to mistakes after the Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004. Cardiff researchers Tatham and Pettit estimated that 42% of humanitarian aid (HA) organisations conducted assessments without expert logistics input.
This resulted in a failure to anticipate bottlenecks in the supply chain and a poor evaluation of beneficiaries’ needs. The cost of logistics including the transportation of materials, procurement, warehousing, and distribution in response to the needs of beneficiaries has been estimated to be as high as 60-80% of the total cost, and up to 30% of aid delivered has been identified as wastage in some post-crisis situations.
Research has recognised that a competency framework for humanitarian staff would improve performance, promote quality and accountability, and promote the development of a professional career path and inter-agency staff mobility.
About the WFP Pacific Multi-Country Office (MCO) MCO plays a vital role in enhancing the disaster response preparedness of national partners across the region. WFP Pacific MCO Supply Chain & Logistics (SC&L) focuses on WFP’s enabling agenda through capacity strengthening for emergency preparedness and response, while maintaining a strategic presence in the Pacific to provide operational support during major disasters when requested. As part of its regional capacity strengthening initiatives, WFP is partnering with the Pacific Community and academics to develop a professional academic qualification in Humanitarian supply chain and logistics (HSC&L).
Research Spotlight
ATU Researcher Dr Ehiaze Ehimen talks to us about his research into energy efficiency and energy poverty in marginalised communities.
About Dr Ehiaze Ehimen
Ehiaze is a Senior Research Fellow in Renewable Energy Systems at ATU, Sligo. He graduated with a PhD in Physics (Energy Systems) from the University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand in 2010, prior to which he had a European MSc in Environmental Technology and Management from De Montfort University, Leicester, UK.
He has worked extensively on a range of renewable energy, environmental technology, waste utilisation and bioprocessing optimisation projects in a variety of research roles and institutions in different European countries.
Thanks, Ehiaze for taking the time to talk to us about your work. Could you tell us about your recent research interests?
Recently my research interests have focused around “developmental energy systems and efficiency” projects.
Prior to receiving the SEAI funded MOBILISE project, I received funding from the Irish Research Council (IRC) COALESCE award for the CEANGAL project, a transnational research collaboration with partners in Malawi, to afford improved renewable energy uptake in SubSaharan African communities.
Why are you researching energy efficiency and energy poverty in marginalised Irish communities?
With the global drive for a low carbon and more sustainable future, there has been increased action focused on implementing energy efficiency measures in Irish households. Emphasis has so far been on schemes targeted at permanent housing structures.
Energy efficiency considerations for mobile homes and for people living in such dwellings have unfortunately not been covered in current national schemes and policy.
Every community, regardless of background or circumstance, must have access to the tools and knowledge needed to ensure their inclusion in a greener future. That is what informs the MOBILISE (Measures to Improve Energy Efficiency and Ensure a Low Carbon Future for Irish Traveller, Direct Provision and Displaced Communities Living in Mobile Homes) project.
Could you tell us more about the MOBILISE project?
The project focuses on Irish travellers, a marginalised and often overlooked community, who currently face unique challenges when it comes to housing and participation in energy efficiency and sustainability approaches. Over 2,280 (2022 census) Irish travellers live in mobile homes or temporary housing units, which often lack the energy-efficient features found in traditional housing.
The age of their homes, high energy costs, significant reliance on fossil fuels for heating, and inadequate insulation lead to discomfort and financial strain exacerbating the energy poverty issues already faced by this community. The MOBILISE project looks to address these issues head-on.
The research project is not just about finding technical solutions, it is also about empowering communities to take control of their energy usage and reduce their environmental footprint.
What are you aiming to achieve with your research?
The MOBILISE research primarily aims to devise practical cost-effective solutions to improve the energy efficiency and comfort of old mobile homes, particularly for disadvantaged Irish travellers.
At its core, the research seeks to address issues around energy poverty in Irish traveller groups, with populations living in mobile homes usually struggling with high energy costs and inadequate living conditions. By improving energy efficiency in mobile homes, we aim to alleviate this burden.
Energy efficiency is not just about reducing costs—it is also about reducing our environmental impact. By minimising energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in mobile homes, the project contributes to broader efforts to combat climate change and build a more sustainable future for all.
Central to this research is the principle of community empowerment. By actively involving Irish travellers, displaced people, and other marginalised groups in the research process, the project ensures that solutions are co-designed, culturally sensitive, and tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.
Through the project engagement, education, and capacity-building initiatives, MOBILISE aims to empower communities to take ownership of their energy usage and lead the way towards sustainability.
Ultimately, this research is about social justice and equity. It is about recognising the inherent dignity and worth of every individual and ensuring that no one is left behind in our pursuit of a more sustainable low carbon and energy efficient future. By delving into and providing solutions to meet the needs of mobile dwelling Irish communities, the project strives to create a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive.”
In addition to engaging with the Irish traveller community who else are you collaborating with?
For the implementation of the MOBILISE project, the team at ATU will be collaborating with partners in Technical University Dublin (TU Dublin) and Munster Technological University (MTU). These partners bring in valuable multidisciplinary knowledge and valuable expertise required for the project.
With County Councils and local authorities playing an important role in Traveller accommodation and energy matters, the project collaborates with Sligo County Council (SCC), Cork County and City Councils.
SCC will also provide old mobile homes free of charge to the project which will be used on site at the ATU campus as test labs for investigating and demonstrating the MOBILISE solution.
How will your research benefit those living in mobile homes?
Practical, culturally sensitive solutions tailored to the needs of these communities can significantly improve their quality of life. Improved insulation, optimised heating and ventilation systems, and renewable
energy integration adaptable for mobile home use are just a few examples of interventions that can make a difference.
By reducing energy costs, we can alleviate financial burdens, freeing up resources for other essential needs like healthcare and education. Improved indoor comfort and air quality enhance overall wellbeing, while reduced environmental impact contributes to a healthier planet for future generations.
The research project therefore is not just theoretical—it’s practical, tangible, and rooted in real-world impact.
The MOBILISE solutions will also be applicable to other citizens with similar energy challenges such as those living in mobile or vernacular homes, remote rural dwellings, geographical peripheral communities, and for use in emergency housing situations.
Innovation and Engagement
Meet our new Head of Knowledge Transfer
The chance to lead out on setting up a brand new Knowledge Transfer Officer (KTO) was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down. Our potential is only limited by our ambition.”
Dr Kieran Ryan, RTTP started as Head of Knowledge Transfer at ATU in May 2024. He holds a first-class honours degree in Biochemistry and a PhD in Microbiology. He previously worked at the University of Galway where he was a Senior Knowledge Exchange Manager. Kieran is a certified Registered Technology Transfer Professional (RTTP) from the ASTP, the European association for technology transfer.
Welcome to ATU, Kieran, could you tell us about your new role as Head of Knowledge Transfer?
The Knowledge Transfer Office (KTO) is a brand new office at ATU. In the short-term, my focus is on building a team and putting structures and processes in place so the office can function optimally. Ultimately, the role of the KTO is to ensure that the new knowledge generated through research at ATU is brought into the world where it can make a real impact, both to the economy and society. We see ourselves very much at the interface between the University and the external world.
Why is this role important for ATU and our region?
The European Commission, the Irish Government, and research funders in general are looking more and more for evidence that the money they are investing in universities is having a return for the taxpayer. There is an obligation on universities now to make every effort to translate research outputs into tangible benefits for society.
This might be in terms of job creation, enticing foreign direct investment, inputting into government policies or even supporting the work of NGOs and charities. By having a KTO at ATU, we are supporting ATU researchers to maximise the impact of their work in our region and beyond.
What strategies and initiatives do you hope to implement to facilitate the transfer of knowledge between the University and its external partners?
Through the three Enterprise Ireland-funded Gateways at ATU we already have a significant number of strong and long-running research connections with industry.
I will be working with the Gateways and researchers across ATU to help them develop new intellectual property that can either be used to start new companies (spin outs) or make available to existing companies through licensing agreements.
We are fortunate in Ireland in that there are well established protocols for doing this thanks to the work of Knowledge Transfer Ireland (KTI). Any new product or service cannot get to the market without significant funding, and I like to think of commercialisation as a tool we can use to make this happen.
I’m also looking forward to working with existing staff on providing training and support for ATU staff and students in the areas of innovation, intellectual property and entrepreneurship.
Why did you come to ATU?
I am a scientist by training, having completed a PhD in molecular diagnostics. I worked as a researcher
in several universities in the UK, Ireland and US before starting a career in research management almost twenty years ago. For the last ten years I worked in knowledge transfer at the University of Galway where I gained extensive experience in international best practice in the field.
Now is an unbelievably exciting time for ATU with an envious amount of new funding streams becoming available, including KT Boost funding from KTI, which is funding this new office. The chance to lead out on setting up a brand new KTO was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down. Our potential is only limited by our ambition.
What future trends or developments do you see shaping the field of knowledge transfer in higher education?
At a European level, the move is away from the traditional definition of intellectual property which comprised patents, trademarks and so on, to a more encompassing one (intellectual assets), which includes things like processes, procedures and reports. I think this wider definition will ultimately benefit universities as we look to transfer knowledge to external partners in a formal way.
At a national level we are seeing more examples of “spin-ins” whereby individuals external to the third level sector bring their ideas into the universities to access development funding. This can be a very attractive prospect and unlocks funding for early stage, high risk projects not easily financed by the investment community. This is something I will be looking to further develop at ATU.
ATU’s Three Enterprise Ireland Funded Gateways
Medical and Engineering Technologies (MET)
The MET Gateway, based in Galway, is an interdisciplinary applied research centre, dedicated to supporting Research, Development and Innovation activities in the MedTech, Life Sciences and Engineering sectors offering advice and support to industry. It holds a unique position residing between product engineering and clinical application and has mastered the ability to translate medical data into engineering data and eventually into product design.
Wireless Sensor and Applied Research Lab (WiSAR)
WiSAR Lab based in Letterkenny is an ATU Strategic Research Centre specialising in the internet of things. WiSAR is a member of the Applied IoT Enterprise Ireland Technology Gateway Network cluster which works in partnership with institutes of technology and technological universities across Ireland with 16 specialised gateways that deliver innovation expertise and solutions for Irish industry across a range of specialist areas.
Precision Engineering and Manufacturing (PEM)
PEM is based in Sligo, and it aims to service the needs of industry. It works with companies to provide solutions to engineering and technical problems across their value chain. It also contributes to the technical and academic body of knowledge within precision engineering and manufacturing and transfer that knowledge to Industry. The PEM Centre delivers these aims through the PEM Technology Gateway and the PEM Research Centre.
New Frontiers Showcase Awards
Thirteen entrepreneurs who participated in Enterprise Ireland’s New Frontiers programme at ATU Donegal and Sligo were showcased at a ceremony in Sligo on 1 March.
Pitching for Success
As part of the end-of-programme event, each participant had the opportunity to pitch their business for a chance to win cash prizes. Sarah Cosgrove of Restore Innovation won the “One to Watch” award sponsored by ATU. The “Best Pitch” award, sponsored by AIB, went to Linda Hegarty of Slick+.
Sarah Cosgrove’s Restore Innovation offers data-driven solutions for nature-inclusive design planning at individual offshore sites to help reduce biodiversity loss and achieve sustainable biodiversity improvements.
Linda Hegarty’s Slick+ serves as a knowledge management platform for user-generated videos which allow employees to capture and share informal knowledge by providing a searchable bank of user-generated and context-specific know-how.
Accelerating Business Development
New Frontiers, delivered through various third-level institutions nationwide, aims to accelerate the development of sustainable new businesses with strong growth potential. The programme has proven to be a valuable pipeline for local enterprise development and job creation.
Speaking at the ceremony, ATU President Dr Orla Flynn highlighted the importance of the New Frontiers
programme in driving regional economic growth. She emphasised the role participants play in advancing the indigenous business community and encouraged continued engagement with ATU’s resources.
Paula Carroll, New Frontiers National Programme Manager also attended the awards and described New Frontiers as “a truly national programme with significant regional outreach and global export potential”.
The
embedding of Enterprise Ireland’s New Frontiers programme within ATU is critical to balanced regional development. Participants of the programme are playing a significant role in the indigenous business community - driving the region’s economy forward.”
Inspiring Insights from Declan Sweeney
Guest speaker at the ceremony was Declan Sweeney of CampusConnect. He shared insights from his journey as a New Frontiers programme participant. His company CampusConnect provides a bespoke, white-labelled digital community service for leading business schools and universities.
Declan was a participant of the New Frontiers programme in 2014. He spoke on the challenges he has faced, from making that first sale to bootstrapping a scalable tech product, and how he overcame them. He also gave some key learnings on business issues such as building a team, availing of supports and deciding when/how to access funding.
For more information about the New Frontiers programme, please click here.
Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President
Declan Sweeney speaking at the New Fontier Showcase Awards.
About New Frontiers
New Frontiers is Enterprise Ireland’s national programme developing an entrepreneurial skillset in early-stage founders. Aimed at individuals with an innovative early-stage startup with growth potential and ambition, it builds the promoter’s toolkit and skills and provides invaluable networking and support infrastructure.
Delivered through third-level institutions across 18 locations nationwide, New Frontiers has been a proven pipeline for the Local Enterprise Office and Enterprise Ireland’s HPSU, since its inception in 2012.
The programme’s primary purpose is to accelerate the development of sustainable new businesses that have strong employment, growth, international potential and contribute to job creation and economic activity in the region.
Meet the New Frontiers Programme Graduates
In addition to Sarah Cosgrave and Linda Hegarty the other graduates were:
Michaela Eperjesiova, The Ocean Apothecary, Donegal
The Ocean Apothecary offers natural handmade skincare for salty seekers, restoring hydration and conquering dryness and tightness after saltwater exposure with their ocean friendly formula.
Ellenmaeve Bergh, Green Dream, Sligo Green Dream provides healthy, plant-based cheesecakes and confectionery sold frozen and fresh, free from refined sugar, gluten and dairy.
Conor Greene, Fuze, Sligo Fuze connects talented Youtubers with brand partnerships so they can increase revenue and fully focus on creating Youtube content.
Christina McAlinden, Laniveen, Donegal
Laniveen™ meaning “tiny baby” is offering a patent-pending medical garment designed exclusively for Neonatal Intensive Care Units to help address low breastfeeding rates and limited skin-to-skin time for preterm babies.
Aisling Kelly Hunter, Sligo
Aisling’s Pickled Oysters venture exemplifies her commitment to culinary excellence and sustainable practices.
Andy Colleran, The Gym Advisors, Sligo
The Gym Advisors help time poor individuals achieve their fitness goals by matching them with their ideal personal trainer or online coach for free in as little as 24 hours.
Zain Ali, Freshcheck.ie, Donegal
Freshcheck.ie is a technology company focused on developing innovative solutions for sustainable food waste management.
Stephen Harvey, SavvySpender.ie, Donegal
SavvySpender.ie gives advice, offers and tools to help people save on their weekly shopping.
Ultan Murphy, Superself, Sligo SuperSelf is an Interpersonal Skills Coaching App which uses proven performance psychology techniques to enhance self-confidence, empowering success for the individual and their employer.
Andrew Flynn, Feln Engineering, Sligo Andrew developed an innovative Tree felling device.
Arden Reilly Counihan, Guitar Cards, Sligo
Learn how music works with colourful card games and interactive exercises. Guitar Cards make understanding the heart of music more fun and accessible.
In less than six months, the New Frontiers programme enabled me to take my business from what was just a concept to a trading company and winning the ‘One to watch’ award has provided the perfect springboard to progress further and keep achieving.”
Participating in the New Frontiers programme was an incredibly enriching experience for me. I feel that I hugely benefited from the expertise and guidance of the mentors, and the connections built up with other participants. The experience of pitching our businesses at the graduation ceremony marked the culmination of the hard work and dedication we had all put into the programme and gave us the platform to declare in public how we are turning our dreams into tangible realities - winning the ‘best pitch’ award was a real bonus!”
Linda Hegarty, Co-Founder Slick+
Best Pitch Award Winner Linda Hegarty with AIB’s Paul Robinson.
One to Watch Award Winner Sarah Cosgrove with ATU’s Eve-Anne McCarron, Finola Howe and New Frontiers Programme Manager Geraldine Beirne.
Sarah Cosgrove, Restore Innovation Ltd
New Frontiers Programme graduates at the showcase of awards on 1 March 2024.
New Frontiers Phase 2 participant Eddie Bradley talks about how he benefitted from the programme. To watch please click here.
Exciting Opportunities for Women in Gaeltacht Regions
A
new three-year programme called CUMASÚ for Gaeltacht female entrepreneurs will give encouragement and opportunity to 150 Gaeltacht women to start their entrepreneurial
The CUMASÚ Programme has been initiated and funded by Údarás na Gaeltachta and is being run on the successful EMPOWER model by ATU Innovation Hubs and Munster Technological University (MTU) Rubicon Centre in collaboration with Údarás na Gaeltachta and the gteic network of digital and innovation hubs. Both the Innovation Hubs and Rubicon Centre have vast experience delivering entrepreneurship programmes in particular female entrepreneurship programmes.
Dara Calleary, TD, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, officially launched the programme in An Spidéal in Connemara on 3 May in association with Tomás Ó Síocháin, Chief Executive of Údarás na Gaeltachta, Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President and Professor Maggie Cusack, MTU President.
This is the first time that a programme of its kind is being provided on a national level and applications are currently being sought from women in the Gaeltacht areas of Donegal, Mayo, Galway, Kerry, Cork, Waterford and Meath. The closing date is 6 August.
journey.
This Programme provides women in rural Gaeltacht areas with an opportunity to systematically develop their business ideas and to receive supports from ATU, MTU, Údarás na Gaeltachta and the gteic network to finalise their plans.”
Dara Calleary, TD, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and
Company Regulation
Inspiring Success Stories from Female Entrepreneurs
At the launch Clíona Standún, being the third-generation in her family business, spoke about how she took over the business at the age of 26 and has been running it with her sister for the last 14 years. Standúns now employs 25 people and is a recognised brand nationally and internationally.
Tríona Nic Giolla Rí outlined how she set up her business Aró with her partner Alan Rowe in 1996. The company works with hotels nationally and internationally on their digital strategies and websites. Tríona talked about the support received from Údarás and how they have gone on to grow their business to employ over 25 people in the Galway Gaeltacht.
Five female founders from last year’s pilot CUMASÚ programme – Margaret Leahy, Fable Tours; Siobhan Leahy, White Rose Creations; Elaine Dunne, Gifts le Grá: Letitita Hill (artist and jewellery maker) and Emily Lavelle, Irish Food and Culture Experiences spoke on how they had benefited from the pilot progamme.
The pilot CUMASÚ Start programme was initiated in 2023 in the Galway and Mayo Gaeltacht areas and was delivered part-time over 12 weeks by start-up experts. 13 women signed up to participate and the part-time model allowed participants to balance their family commitments while at the same time planning and developing their new business.
Speaking at the launch Tomás Ó Síocháin, Chief Executive of Údarás na Gaeltachta said: “Creating opportunities for underrepresented groups in entrepreneurship is a key priority for Údarás na Gaeltachta and is vital to ensure that we draw on the often-untapped talent among a huge swathe of the population.
“Cumasú is the first step, we hope of many, for female entrepreneurs and Údarás is working on the next steps for those entrepreneurs as they seek to bring novel ideas to life. In doing so, this will often solve problems in their community, create local, sustainable employment and over time develop a cohort that will create business that can seek to capture part of a global market.”
The New CUMASÚ TÚS & FÁS Programme
This new Programme will have two parts – CUMASÚ Tús and CUMASÚ Fás.
CUMASÚ Tús (based on EMPOWER Start) is for females with an early-stage business idea they want to develop and grow. This programme will be delivered over 12 weeks mostly online with some in-person events. The opportunity is to test start up idea(s) for customer acceptance.
CUMASÚ Fás (based on EMPOWER Growth) is for female founders in business 18 months who are living in the Gaeltacht areas who want to grow. This programme is based on peer-to-peer learning with fellow female founders and will take place one day per month.
Women living in the Gaeltacht or looking or having set up their businesses in the Gaeltacht areas are encouraged to click here to apply for the programme. Places are limited and early application is recommended. Further information is available by contacting ATU iHub Mayo on empower.galwaymayo@atu.ie
Left to right: Michelle Lee, EMPOWER Project Coordinator, Minister Dara Calleary and Maria Staunton, ATU iHub Mayo.
New Programme for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Co-Founders is a programme for anyone. You do not need to be an experienced entrepreneur. You do not need to have a formal qualification. You only need to have the drive to bring an idea to reality.
The recent Co-Founders NW Programme which was delivered in ATU Donegal CoLab gave aspiring entrepreneurs an opportunity to ‘try out’ creating a start-up in a safe, riskfree environment. The programme was delivered over five Saturdays in CoLab through interactive inperson workshops, with networking opportunities, and expert advice.
The participants were a mix of ATU Researchers, Business Studies and Digital Media students, CoLab clients and external companies.
Co-Founders NW is a specially designed 5-week programme for people with passion, drive and ambition to come together to create start-ups that could change the world. It is based on the 12-week Co-Founders programme that Catalyst deliver once a year.
The programme is for anyone who wants to be a co-founder in a potential start-up team and has the desire to explore the viability of a business idea. The programme brings together a wide range of people from diverse backgrounds, allowing participants to meet potential collaborators they wouldn’t even know existed.
Co-Founders can accelerate participants’ growth with weekly workshops which develop their problem-solving ability, start-up knowhow and teach participants how to test and develop a product or service as well as advising them on applying for funding.
For the first time we saw researchers in the areas of AI, Data Security, electronics and embedded software come together with individuals from banking, health care, and manufacturing backgrounds to explore starting a global business. Several of the participants have gone on to explore their ideas further by enrolling in a Business Bootcamp currently run by CoLab ATU and Alpha Innovation.”
Patsy Donaghy, ATU CoLab Manager
Participants on the Co-Founders NW Programme.
Practical Skills Programme for Owners and Managers
In response to requests from business owners, the Tech NorthWest Skillnet team recently designed Leadtech, a practical skills programme for business owners and senior managers.
Tech Northwest Skillnet is a network of companies in Donegal, Sligo and Leitrim who are focused on technology, innovation and competitiveness. Facilitated by ATU Donegal it provides training and networking opportunities for employers in the northwest.
Garrett Harte, from Harte Media, helped Siobhan Grant to draft content for the Leadtech programme that would address the critical elements of leadership and communication in business. From his experience of running Newstalk Garrett is aware of the challenges associated with leading a team. As a communications expert he had already worked with senior managers in the radio industry.
Over the past three years the programme has been run twice with 20 companies in total completing the training. Raelene McAteer, based in Japan, and a global leadership trainer to companies such as Google, delivered interactive sessions to the participants. Guest speakers including Lynn Temple, Sally Ann Sherry, Bobby Kerr and Barry O’Sullivan gave participants an insight on their experiences in business.
The progamme also provided mentoring and all participants worked on a project affecting their business throughout the programme. The final session involved presentations from each member of the group on the actions planned for their businesses.
Reflecting on her experience, participant, Anne Blake said: “It has changed my perception of business and how I look at my role in La Maison.”
Leadtech involves six half day sessions, held once a month,
one-to-one Mentoring and Peer Group Buddying. Between each of the monthly sessions the participants work with their peers to review how the content of the workshops apply to their businesses. Leadtech is planned to run again in early 2025. You can register your interest by emailing info@technorthwestkskillnet.com
TechNorth West is a key resource in our external engagement with industry in Donegal and the North West, it allows us to respond to the needs of industry in a holistic way and leads to strong relationship being built, making ATU a significant industry partner as they develop their talent in the region.”
Minister Launches new UN Tourism Initiative at ATU
Ireland joins UN Tourism International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO)
Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin TD, launched the Atlantic Sustainable Tourism Observatory at ATU Sligo on Thursday 2 May, marking a historic moment for the nation’s tourism industry and signalling a commitment to sustainable practices in the sector.
The Atlantic Sustainable Tourism Observatory Ireland achieved the distinction of becoming the first member in Northern Europe of the UN Tourism International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO) in November 2023, marking a significant milestone in Ireland’s dedication to sustainable tourism practices.
INSTO is a global network committed to driving sustainable growth in the tourism sector. It is committed to promoting robust measurement and monitoring practices to drive sustainable and resilient growth in the sector. Ireland’s inclusion in this network highlights a collective commitment to addressing the urgent need for data to inform sustainable change, highlighting the importance of evidence-based practices in shaping the future of tourism.
15 billion reasons to be more sustainable
The initiative comes as Ireland sets ambitious targets outlined in Vision 2030, produced by the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation (ITIC). The vision anticipates tourism revenues increasing from €10 billion to €15 billion while employing 350,000 people and providing €2.3 billion in exchequer revenue in Ireland. To realise these ambitions, the Atlantic Sustainable Tourism Observatory will work with destinations to measure and monitor sustainable tourism indicators to inform evidencebased planning. This will help destinations transition to support Ireland’s overall 2030 and 2050 sustainability commitments.
Speaking at the launch Minister Catherine Martin TD said: “The Atlantic Sustainable Tourism Observatory (ASTOI) is a welcome addition to Irish tourism and will help to support sustainable and resilient growth of the sector through measurement and monitoring, supporting the evidence-based management of tourism. I compliment the team at ATU for their efforts to secure this designation from UN Tourism and
for being accepted as a member of the UN Tourism International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO).”
Minister Martin added: “This establishment underscores Ireland’s commitment to sustainable tourism development, aligning closely with global efforts led by INSTO and the United Nations Tourism’s commitments. Through robust measurement and monitoring practices, ASTOI will play a pivotal role in monitoring the economic, environmental, and social impact of tourism at the destination level. This can help us foster sustainable and resilient growth in our tourism sector.”
The Observatory will play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration among tourism destinations across the Atlantic coast, Ireland’s islands, and heartlands. This collaborative effort will assist Ireland’s commitment to monitoring the economic, environmental, and social impacts of tourism at the destination level, aligning with the principles advocated by UN Tourism.
With its commitment to measuring and monitoring the impacts of tourism on society and the planet, the Atlantic Sustainable Observatory marks a new era of sustainable tourism practices in Ireland. Equipped with comprehensive data and a shared vision for change, Ireland’s inaugural INSTO observatory is poised to drive tangible progress toward a more sustainable future for the tourism sector.”
Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President
Key indicators to be measured and monitored by the Observatory
The Observatory’s mission extends beyond data collection, aiming to
provide destinations with actionable insights to facilitate evidence-based planning and management. By compiling data on issues impacting local economies, communities, and environments, the Observatory seeks to empower destinations in transitioning toward sustainability.
The Observatory will measure and monitor over 40 indicators, including energy, waste and water consumption; the percentage of residents who are satisfied with tourism in the destination; and the average carbon footprint of tourists and same-day visitors.
With its commitment to measuring and monitoring the impact of tourism on society and the planet, the Observatory marks a new era of sustainable tourism practices in Ireland. Equipped with comprehensive data and a shared vision for change, Ireland’s inaugural INSTO observatory is poised to
drive tangible progress toward a more sustainable future for the tourism sector.
You can’t manage what you don’t measure and monitor and the key to this process is to fund tourism research to ensure we can transition to sustainable destinations and meet our climate action commitments.”
Dr James Hanrahan, Director of the new Observatory
Back row left to right: Fiona McKenna, ATU; Joana Lima, Maria do Rosáiro Borges, University of Extremadura (EU GREEN); Jaime Serra, Alentejo Sustainable Tourism Observatory based at University of Evora (EU GREEN); Deirdre Byrne (ATU).
Front row left to right: Dr James Hanrahan, ATU; Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President; Minister Catherine Martin; Dr Dirk Glaesser, Director, Sustainable Development of Tourism, UN Tourism; Nina Kušar, Regional Department for Europe, UN Tourism.
Donegal meets Massachusetts
Students from ATU Donegal Letterkenny recently took part in an intercultural exchange with Worcester State University in Massachusetts as part of their programme. This was a blended exchange incorporating both virtual and face-to-face elements. Students met online on 28 February to meet their American interview partners and engage in some ice-breaking activities. This virtual meeting paved the way for the faceto-face encounter on 21 March, when all the students finally got to meet in person.
We visited many places during our weeklong trip to Ireland but our visit to Letterkenny was one of the highlights. Thanks to your dedication to the partnership, our students will remember their interactions with ATU students well beyond their time as university students.”
Daniel Hunt, Assistant professor, Worcester State University
Úna Carthy, lecturer at ATU Letterkenny explained that this was the first iteration of the newly launched BA in Communications with English. She said: “Initially, I was somewhat apprehensive about introducing a blended exchange to first year students who had only just begun their third level journey in September 2023. The shared assignment is part of the module
entitled Intercultural Communications and incorporated some reflection on Irish culture. But the level of engagement from my students surpassed all expectations.”
The visit to Letterkenny took on a life of its own, when ATU students jumped onto the stage to give a demonstration of Irish dancing,
The best thing about Ireland is the people. The country itself is gorgeous, but the people that I met while I was there were the most beautiful strangers I have ever encountered.”
Ella Hatcher, Worcester State University student
The exchange was an amazing and insightful experience which will remain one of my favourite memories throughout my course. Not only did it help me gain more understanding of the intercultural communications process, but I also made many new American friends.”
Abbie Mc Crory, ATU, BA in Communications with English student followed by Abbie McCrory giving dancing lessons and, finally, a beautiful rendition of ‘Red is the Rose’, by Ella Hatcher, one of the visiting American students. Music was provided by Marie Kelly on the harp, Michael Carey, tin whistle and Pat Campbell, piano.
Ella Hatcher, Worcester State University student with Sarah Murray, ATU Donegal student.
N-TUTORR Transforming Learning News N-TUTORR News
the value of student partnership, taking a whole provider approach when implementing change programmes such as N-TUTORR, and the importance of investing in the student experience.
This was followed by Dr Katriona O’Sullivan, author of best-selling memoir Poor who shared her powerful story about her life and learning journey, inspiring us to be inclusive and extraordinary in higher education.
proud of all that has been achieved across the country together over the last year, with the amazing Student Empowerment Coordinator team, Institutional Leads, and the stars of the day, all our students and fellowship project teams.”
The N-TUTORR Students as Partners in Innovation and Change National Conference was held in Croke Park on 17 April, bringing together over 500 participants onsite and online. The event showcased the work of 100 Student Champions and 130 Fellowship Projects from Ireland’s technological universities and institutes of technology.
The conference featured keynotes from Prof Liz Thomas, who discussed
Presidents from across the TU sector attended the conference to support the creative work and teams connected with N-TUTORR’s Transforming Learning initiatives.
Dr Sarah Carroll (ATU data analyst for N-TUTORR) presented research reports on student partnership, micro-credentials, and blended learning. You can access these reports here.
Dr Carina Ginty (ATU) co-leads the student empowerment stream for the sector with Dr Moira Maguire (DkIT) and said: “We are extremely
Dr Ginty added: “Encouraging the spirit of partnership between educators and students was a key goal we set out to achieve. By empowering our learners, we are building their self-confidence and ability to solve problems. It is a winwin for educators and learners in our university and the organisations and community connected.”
The event concluded with a panel discussion featuring N-TUTORR Champions who shared valuable insights on their role in the project. The session was chaired by Dr Ronan Bree (DkIT) and Dr Carina Ginty (ATU).
The conference was a national day of learning, connection, and celebration of student empowerment and partnership in the technological higher education sector.
Left to right: Dr Carina Ginty, Dr Katriona O’Sullivan and Dr Orla Flynn.
ATU Academic Champions Reflection and Evaluation Day
The N-TUTORR Academic Champions came together on 9 May in Sligo. It was a celebratory opportunity to meet N-TUTORR colleagues face-to- face, discuss experiences, challenge each other’s ideas, and collaboratively build on ideas to identify a future outlook. Everyone had the opportunity to participate in three activities across three rooms throughout the day which included:
• An Academic Focus Group session facilitated by N-TUTORR MRes Researcher Deborah Doherty.
• A Lego Serious Play session facilitated by Dr Ellen McCabe and Noreen Henry exploring potential paths for the progression of the N-TUTORR Academic Champion role.
• A N-TUTORR ATU Curriculum Framework Programme Design Toolkit facilitated by Dr Seán Daffy focused on the newly designed suite of workshops and resources to support programme development throughout the ATU.
The day was the perfect blend of fun, creativity, and intellectual rigor, making every session an adventure in learning and innovation. The findings will inform a collective vision for the impact of the N-TUTORR project and Academic Champions across the ATU community.
N-TUTORR Stream 1 Research Publications Update
The N-TUTORR Stream 1 research team has been working behind the scenes to fuel innovation, inquiry and evidence-based practice across the programme. To read their N-TUTORR green papers please click here and to find out more about their work click here.
ATU Celebrates
International Nurses Day
To mark International Nurses Day, (12 May), ATU and Health Service partners hosted events in Mayo and Sligo University Hospitals on Friday 10 May.
In Letterkenny, ATU Donegal and Nurse Practice Development (NPD), HSE North West clinical partners in General, Intellectual Disability and Mental Health Nursing partners hosted a symposium event on 8 May.
These events were held to recognise the personal and professional commitment nurses make to our health services and show appreciation for their work and dedication both in Ireland and around the world.
Modern health care is complex and nurses have a unique perspective as the professional group with 24/7 involvement with patients. Nurses continue to develop and find new and innovative ways of providing health care closer to where patients live, using technology where appropriate and enhancing their knowledge and skills to reduce waiting times and improve the quality of care provided.
Being an effective nurse requires personal and professional attributes and skills which grow and respond to our patients and service needs over time. ATU and the Health services partnership work together to develop and support nurses to deliver the highest quality of care possible.
Nurses from Mayo University Hospital in Castlebar celebrate International Nurses Day.
Nurses from ATU St Angelas celebrate International Nurses Day at Sligo University Hospital.
Attendees at symposium in ATU Donegal Letterkenny on 8 May.
Meet our Nurses
Charlene Bogan, an ATU alumnus, has moved from a successful career in women’s health to become an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Nursing and Health Care at ATU.
ATU Alumus wins Major Nursing Award
Letterkenny Nurse Majella Neeson was recently announced as winner of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) award for Perceptor of the Year, 2024.
Preceptors are experienced nurses who act as mentors and teachers and help supervise nursing students during their work in a hospital.
Majella was nominated by student nurse Grainne Gillespie who praised
What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing?
Several of my friends worked in the nursing profession and they encouraged me to follow in their footsteps. I had always been drawn to the idea of helping others and being there for people in their time of need. Nursing seemed like the perfect way to fulfil this desire.
What do you enjoy about your role as Assistant Lecturer at ATU?
Embarking on my career as an Assistant Lecturer marks an exciting new chapter filled with opportunities for growth and learning. I have been fortunate to continue to be surrounded by supportive colleagues from both ATU and our clinical partners in Letterkenny University Hospital (LUH).
This incredibly rewarding career offers numerous opportunities to
make a positive impact on the next generation of nurses as they embark on their educational journey. This year, I have witnessed the growth and development of students, both academically and professionally which is very rewarding. It is immensely satisfying to know that I am helping them on their path to becoming competent and compassionate nurses.
For anyone considering a career in nursing, what advice would you give them?
Go for it! Nursing is a rewarding profession that offers endless opportunities for growth and professional development. Your work will make a difference in the lives of both your patients and their families. Embrace the privilege of becoming a nurse, and never underestimate the positive impact that you will have on others.
Majella’s commitment to teaching and guidance and said she made student nurses feel ‘equal and included’.
Majella recently visited our Letterkenny campus and shared her pearls of wisdom on the importance of making students feel valued and recognised in clinical practice to our Final Year Intern PreReg Nurses. This cohort will be our future Nurses and Preceptors when they graduate.
Left to right: Louise McBride, Head of Department of Nursing and Health Care, ATU Donegal: Majella Neeson, (RGN); Grainne Gillespie, fourth year general nursing student, and Breda Mulgrew, ATU Donegal nurse lecturer and fourth year general nurse tutor.
Strengthening Global Connections: ATU Attend Mayo Day in Chicago
ATU was invited by Mayo County Council as an educational partner to attend a series of events to mark the 10th Anniversary of Mayo Day in Chicago, USA. Representing ATU on the trip were Dr Justin Kerr, Vice President Mayo Campus, Elaine Goode, International Officer, and Lauren Reynolds, Alumni Officer.
The ATU team visited Saint Patrick High School and discussed opportunities at ATU with staff and students.
Official Mayo Day celebrations started with a networking event and business panel discussion at the Drake Hotel in Chicago. The discussion, moderated by former Taoiseach Enda Kenny featured business leader, Anne Marie Coleman, Chief of Staff to the CHRO at The Coca-Cola Company; Chris Meissner, CEO Meissner Filtration, and Cathal Hughes, owner of the global workwear manufacturing company Portwest.
The main event was held at Gaelic Park where ATU hosted a stand as park of the Mayo Day exhibition. We enjoyed speaking with attendees about ATU and student life in Ireland as well as connecting with several of our alumni.
Left to right: Lauren Reynolds, Alumni Officer, ATU; Ruth Cawley, President of the Mayo Association of Chicago and ATU alumnus; Dr Justin Kerr, Vice President Mayo campus and Elaine Goode, International Officer, ATU.
Celebrating Intergenerational Creativity: Highlights from ATU’s
Creative Generations Festival
ATU Sligo held the vibrant Creative Generations Festival from 22-26 April where audiences enjoyed engaging talks, exhibitions, creative workshops, and activities. It was an inspiring week of community connection, joyful learning, and a celebration of intergenerational and multi-generational creativity.
Opening Day: Baby Dance and a World Café of Student Learning
The festival, funded by the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Office, started on Monday, 22 April, with the dynamic Baby Dance. Baby Dance explores dance with babies under two years old and their grandparents. Families moved and grooved to a live DJ set of world music. This was a real first for ATU Sligo led by ATU Lecturer and Dance the Medicine DJ, Kate Brown in collaboration with Open Floor Mindful Movement Teacher, Éadaoin Ní Challaráin.
Later that day at ATU Sligo’s Hume Hall, more than 60 students, lecturers, volunteer learning
partners and members of local communities gathered for the World Café, Knowing-BeingDoing. ATU Sligo Early Childhood Care and Education, Social Care Students, and students from ATU Mayo shared their semester’s learning and project work. This was a space to reflect and engage critically with others in the context of equality, diversity and inclusion. There was music from the ATU Sligo Intergenerational Choir, and the learning observations from the event were captured through live graphic illustration by ATU Mayo Lecturer, John Mulloy.
Children’s Photography Competition and the Generational Calm Exhibition
Tuesday saw the launch and prize-giving ceremony for A Picture Speaks. Children were invited to get creative and think about the different ways they could capture on camera their relationships with their grandparents and grand friends.
There were over 30 submissions, and the prize-winning photographers came from St. Edward’s Primary School, and St. Brendan’s Primary School, Sligo, and Scoil Naomh Molaoise in Grange.
A second exhibition installed in the Department of Social Sciences was Artist Ruth Le Gear’s Generational Calm. The audio/visual exhibition shared Ruth’s artistic practice, and the intergenerational experiences of those who spend their time together in nature: the children and older people in Sligo Children’s Community Garden, and the Cranmore Women’s Garden. As part of the curated works, exhibition visitors saw Wonders of Worms The film tells how working with soil, compost and its processes offer the potential to talk with children about life and death.
This Is What Matters To Us
Also on Tuesday afternoon, This Is What Matters To Us provided a space for people of all ages to share their experiences of intergenerational relationships, the Arts and Creativity.
Sligo’s Comhairle na nÓg screened their short film to highlight the LGBTQI+ supports available in Sligo for young people, called Here For You. The panel of young people also regaled their audience with stories of what it meant to participate in the decision-making processes at Dáil no nÓg. This Is What Matters To Us coincided with the publication of The National Study on the Mental Health and Wellbeing of the LGBTQI+ Communities in Ireland.
Joining the young people on the sofa were Bernie Doherty and Coreen Robertson from Inishowen’s Intergenerational Choir of Ages. The choir’s ethos is connection, collaboration, support and kindness. We heard testimonials from choir members, three generations of the one family, who spoke of their time in the choir as being uplifting, for older choir members the joy of hearing children sing, and new members from the Ukraine, who said they felt not only accepted, but celebrated.
Connect and Create Workshops for Intergenerational Collaboration
Thursday and Friday of the Festival were Intergenerational Takeover Days! Final Year Early Childhood Care and Education, and Social Care Practice students facilitated eight Connect and Create workshops for children under four,
and older volunteers from Mayo, Roscommon, Sligo and Leitrim. Students created a relaxed and welcoming space where older and younger could come together to enjoy one another’s company through arts and crafts, music and movement, baking, and traditional skills, like making their own butter.
Senior Sports Fest: Promoting Fitness and Healthy Living
The festival concluded on Friday with Senior Sports Fest, an annual event organised by Sligo Sports and Recreation Partnership in Knocknarea Arena. Attending groups took part in aerobics, and dance and competed in the firm favourite curling. This year firsttime sports introduced included pickleball and walking football, which were hugely popular. The event was immense fun, and it ensures that physical activity is a sustainable option for all ages.
The intergenerational festival celebrates the arts and culture, which are vital for the University’s engagement with local communities, and wider society. Importantly, Creative Generations supported Global Intergenerational Week 2024, a campaign which seeks to highlight the powerful outcomes that are achieved, when people of all ages come together.”
Kate Brown, ATU Lecturer and Festival Producer
Building on the success of the festival, expressions of interest are now being sought from colleagues to participate in ATU’s Age Friendly University application. You can find out more about the Age Friendly University Global Network here, and to get involved in the ATU Age Friendly University application working group contact kate.brown@ atu.ie or edi@atu.ie
ATU Poetry Competitions Winners
Poetry Pillar Climate Action Competition
On National Poetry Day (25 April) ATU announced the winners of the third Annual Poetry Pillar Competition. The competition was for unpublished poets, who have an interest in sustainability, climate change, biodiversity and all things green.
The Transition Year (TY) Competition winning entry titled ‘Shifting Seasons’ by Sophie Pilbrow, Mount Saint Michael, Claremorris and the ATU student
winner Sharon McNamara, Mayo Campus with her entry ‘Misplaced Guilt’ both have their poems displayed on the Poetry Pillar as part of an ongoing installation in the ATU Mayo Sanctuary Garden.
On the day, renowned poet Geraldine Mitchell read some of her poems and emphasised the significance of poetry and the arts in people’s lives in the promotion of wellbeing. Geraldine also presented prizes to TY second place winner, Aine Quigg, St
Josephs Castlebar, with her entry ‘A dream of old reality’ and third place winner Isabelle Kelly, Mount Saint Michael, Claremorris with her entry ‘Whispers from our Earth’.
The presentation to the ATU second prize winner, Maria Lavin, ATU Sligo with her poem ‘Life on earth’, and to Angelika Matyjazczky-Zoltex, ATU Mayo Campus who claimed third price with her poem ‘The Invisible Nature’ brought the proceedings to an end.
Speaking at the prizegiving Dr Deridre Garvey, Head of Department, Environmental Humanities and Social Sciences said: “It is a pleasure to link with local schools, the TY co-ordinators and their students in such a creative way around important topics during Green Week.”
Left to right: Dr Deirdre Garvey, Head of the Department of Environmental Humanities and Social Sciences, ATU Mayo, Poet Geraldine Mitchell and TY poetry competition winner, Sophie Pilbrow, Mount Saint Michael, Claremorris.
Left to right: Dr Deirdre Garvey, Head of the Department of Environmental Humanities and Social Sciences, ATU Mayo, Poet Geraldine Mitchell and ATU student winner Sharon McNamara, ATU Mayo
Poetic Justice Competition
The winners of ATU’s inaugural Poetic Justice competition were also recently announced. The competition was a great success with 47 entries from campuses across ATU. The judges feedback complimented the breadth and range of the works submitted. A great love of learning, and of life in ATU shone through in many of the submissions.
The competition highlighted the crucial role of the arts in making space for diversity and deepening our understanding of one another’s journey.
In the run up to the competition, poetry workshops facilitated by poets, Sarah Clancy, Jessamine O’Connor, and Sam Ó Fearraigh were held on our Donegal, Sligo and Galway campuses.
Acclaimed poets Annemarie Ní Churreáin and Sam Ó Fearraigh judged the competition. The theme of the competition, which included entries from students and staff was ‘A Global Identity for a time of Global Challenge’ prompting writers to consider how can we move past national identities to realise our common human goal of collaborating across all our differences to make the world a liveable harmonious biosphere.
Barry Neenan from ATU GalwayMayo won first prize for his technically accomplished poem ‘Eight billion untold stories’. In second place was Ena Vellguth, ATU Sligo for her enlightening poem ‘Every day is pasta day’ and in third place was Marion Neary, ATU Sligo for her captivating poem ‘Kintsugi’. Artists Sean Hillen, Manal Mahamid and Paola Bernardelli provided the prizes for the competition.
Several poets were also highly commended including Martina Mallon, Tetiana Kulish, Finn McCarron, Marion Neary and Eric Downey.
Poets, artists and judges pictured at the prizegiving for the Poetic Justice competition.
Healthy Home Chef Competition with Celebrity Chef Neven Maguire
The food labs at ATU were in full flow with the return of the Healthy Home Chef Cooking Competition held on 30 April-1 May at ATU St Angelas campus with celebrity chef Neven Maguire keeping score.
Open to junior and senior secondary school students, the all-island event was an opportunity for young people to create tasty, nutritious, and affordable meals at home.
Entries came from all parts of the country who submitted their culinary ideas for consideration. From this a select few were shortlisted as finalists in both junior and senior categories who were then invited
to the campus to recreate their dishes before a panel of judges including award winning chef and TV presenter, Neven Maguire.
Dr Elaine Mooney, Director of the National Centre of Excellence for Home Economics at ATU St Angelas welcomed the return of the competition and said: “This is an event we really look forward to every year as it’s a great way to connect with young people who already have a passion and flair for food. The standards they bring get better and better each year and it’s no small testament to their Home Economics teachers who clearly see great potential in them”.
These talented young people bring a vibrancy to the kitchen each and every year and really put their skills into their chosen dishes. If they enjoy what they’re doing, enjoy creating these amazing dishes to share with others, then they are all winners in my opinion.”
2024 Healthy Home Chef Competition Winners
Junior Category:
Gold: Juliet Jaison, Convent of Mercy, Roscommon.
Silver: Meadbh Hartnett, Holy Family, Kildare.
Bronze: Anna Owen, Clounagh Junior High School, Portadown.
Senior Category:
Gold: Poppy Kilpatrick, Skibbereen Community School, Cork.
Bronze: Thien Laitenberger, Sancta Maria College, Mayo.
Neven Maguire, Guest Judge
Junior Gold winner, Juliet Jaison receiving her award from Nevin Maguire.
Senior Gold winner, Poppy Kilpatrick receiving her award from Nevin Maguire.
ATU Book Launches
‘STAMP’ a Collection of Visual Art Staff and students gathered in ATU Mayo on 17 April to celebrate the launch of STAMP, a new book of photographs of visual art works created by graduates of the parttime art courses delivered in the Mayo campus over the last 25 years. The publication contains 56 photographs of art works created by graduates from across Ireland, the majority of whom are practising in the west.
Final year student Claire Finegan on the BA in Contemporary Arts Practice alongside ATU lecturers Dr John Mulloy, Denis Farrell and Hazel Walker began work on this publication last semester, receiving submissions from 62 graduates.
The book was designed by Claire Finegan and features a painting by Sabine Lacey on the cover and is available to view online, you can access it here.
Dr John Mulloy, Chair of the Contemporary Arts Practices Programme Board expressed pride in the achievements of the graduates and said: “The part-time art courses at ATU Mayo aimed to provide students with a critical engagement with contemporary visual culture in the west of Ireland, to embed the visual arts in the culture of the area and to create an innovative model of arts education in a rural context. We are very proud of the achievements of our students and graduates in helping us to reach these goals and the roles they have played as both
professional artists and cultural agents in the wider community.”
Alumni Community: Connecting and Supporting Artists
The establishment of a new online alumni forum for alumni of the course was also announced, with Claire Finegan and Rachel Corcoran, students of the BA in Contemporary Arts Practices, expressing excitement about the opportunity to connect and support one another in their artistic endeavours. They said: “We are delighted to join the new online community group for alumni of our courses. This platform will serve as an excellent avenue for us to connect, exchange information, and support one another in our artistic careers.”
This is a beautiful publication and reflects the work of graduates and staff over 25 years. It also marks the contribution of the part-time art programmes provided at ATU Mayo. A recent external quality assurance review commended the programme in having a major impact on the region and that it has added capacity, capability, maturity, and resourcefulness.”
Dr Deirdre Garvey, Head of the Department of Environmental Humanities and Social Sciences, ATU Mayo
Pictured at the launch of STAMP left to right: ATU Art lecturers Dr John Mulloy, Denis Farrell, Hazel Walker; Deirdre Garvey, Head of the Department of Environmental Humanities & Social Sciences, and ATU Art lecturer John Brady.
Third Volume of Scrimshaw Launched
On 2 May, ATU launched the third volume of Scrimshaw, A Journal of New Writing and Visual Art. The journal is a collection of poetry, prose, and imagery from over 50 contributors from across the ATU community including students, staff and alumni. Students of the Writing and Literature programme at ATU Sligo edited and produced the journal.
The student editorial team said: “We have been honoured to work with the incredible students, staff and alumni of ATU and we are thrilled to see their work in print. Their pieces have come to us from Streedagh, Sweden and beyond. It is wonderful to see such a breadth of talent and experience coming together in this volume.”
The name ‘Scrimshaw’ comes from the artwork created by whalers, engraved on the by-products of whales, such as bones or cartilage. This was a hobby of whalers to pass the time through creativity.
Mixed media, Indian Ink, earth pigments, acrylics
Dimensions 40cm x 60cm
| June
Artwork from STAMP: “Headspace” by Martina O’Connor.
Scrimshaw editorial team and contributors present a copy of Scrimshaw to Minister Catherine Martin TD, Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President and Orla Parsons, Head of College, ATU Sligo.
Turning the Sod: ATU’s new Sheep Housing and Handling Facility
On 9 May Minister for Agriculture
Charlie McConalogue turned the first sod at ATU’s Mountbellew campus on the Agricultural College’s new Sheep Housing and Handling Facility on their live farm.
The new facility will be an integral part of the training programmes in Mountbellew, supporting the college’s commercial sheep enterprise and allowing learners to engage in a meaningful way with the college farm activities.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister McConalogue said: “This year Mountbellew Agricultural College celebrates 120 years in existence. When founded it was the first of its kind in Ireland. It is fitting that we should mark that milestone by planning for the educational needs of future generations of students.
“When completed, the sheep handling and housing facility will
undoubtedly enhance the experience of those students who come here from all over the country to learn about sheep farming. Good practices in animal breeding, flock health and grassland management are central to the achievement of financial gains and technical efficiency in sheep farming.”
Dr Edna Curley, Principal of Mountbellew Agricultural College, ATU campus, welcomed the Minister and said: “We are delighted to be joined by our partners, Teagasc, ATU and LOETB who support us in all our activities. Today, for our learners and around a super team of staff, host farmers, stakeholders, neighbours, family and friends we are building our infrastructure. We are building upon a wonderful foundation established by the Franciscan Brothers; and we hope to do them proud in our work and carry on their legacy here in Mountbellew.”
Today marks the commencement of an exciting new development for Mountbellew Agricultural College at ATU which will benefit learners, staff, the sheep enterprise, stakeholders and the wider region. Learners will enjoy state of the art sheep facilities while developing and enhancing their practical skills and knowledge.”
Dr AnneMarie Butler, Head of Education, Teagasc
ATU Mountbellew Agricultural College has almost 900 students studying a range of full-time and part-time courses from levels 5 to degree level 8, delivered by Teagasc, ATU and Laois Offaly Education and Training Board. The programmes are designed to promote understanding of specific disciplines such as rural enterprise and agri-business, environmental management and recently, agricultural engineering.
Left to right: Dr Edna Curley, Principal of Mountbellew Agricultural College; Minister Charlie McConalogue; Dr Joanne Gallagher, Head of Faculty of Science and Health, ATU Donegal and Dr Annemarie Butler, Head of Education, Teagasc.
Recent ATU Conferences
Leading and Managing People in Changing Landscape
ATU recently welcomed Neal Richmond, Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment with special responsibility for Employment Affairs to the Mayo campus. Minister Richmond spoke at the campus’ HRM and Leadership event titled ‘Leading and Managing People in Changing Landscape’.
This event brought together several experienced HR practitioners and industry leaders from the region. They reflected on the current challenges of managing and leading people in a time of great change. The event took the form of a panel discussion and themes such as skills shortages, managing and leading a diverse work force, artificial intelligence, data analytics and sustainability were discussed. It was a lively and engaging session as panellists shared their thoughts on the future of human resource management and leadership.
Michael Gill, Head of Department of Organisational Development on the Mayo Campus, was delighted with the event and the level of engagement from students, staff and other guests present on
the day. He said: “It was a great opportunity for students studying the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Human Resource Management, the Certificate in Supervisory Management and the MSc in Applied Leadership & Management in Health, Social Care or Public Sector to engage with expert speakers as part of their studies with us.”
Back row, left to right: Declan Hoban, Celene Dunphy, Clodagh Geraghty, Shane Byrne, Minister of State Neale Richmond, Martin Cosgrove, Michael Gill, Niamh Hearns, Sandra Mongan, Caroline Clarke. Front row left to right: Maggie Woods, Carmel Keane, Mary Boyd, Ciara Compton, Siofra Kilcullen.
Digital Innovation in Sport
ATU hosted a conference on the role of technology in sports participation, business and performance, at its Galway city campus on 23 May. Organised by the ATU Department of Sport, Exercise, and Nutrition, the inaugural Digital Innovation in Sport Conference was held in association with Data 2 Sustain, Sports Tech Ireland and Sport Ireland.
The MC on the day was pundit, columnist, and former Irish rugby player Bernard Jackman who chaired two panel discussions with athletes, coaches, and industry specialists.
International soccer player Niamh Fahey and international basketball player and coach Michael Bree headlined the panel of sports stars
and experts on sports, exercise and nutrition who discussed ‘Technology and the Performance Process’. The panel discussion focused on the management and tracking of athlete development and wellness, the use of technology to capture, understand and predict performances and the deployment of technology to accelerate athlete learning.
‘Operational Success’ was the focus of the other panel discussion. It looked at the business of sport, using technology to support participation and how to better enable fan and customer engagement.
Keynote speaker Professor Sam Robertson, Professor of Sports Analytics at Victoria University (Australia) spoke on ‘Tech Strategy:
your sport’s next competitive advantage’ and outlined his Sports Technology Quality Framework. This is a standardised framework to guide the effective and efficient evaluation of sport technologies for those looking to integrate technology to their sport.
Technology use in sport is accelerating and we are delighted to bring together a dynamic group of people with a focus on making technology accessible at all levels, from the grass roots to the podium.”
Damien Costello, Head of Department of Sport, Exercise and Nutrition, ATU Galway
News in Brief
Explore Intercultural Learning (EIL) Award
ATU student Ciera Mills, was recognised on a global scale earlier this academic year. Ciera won an award through Explore Intercultural Learning (EIL) and will be going to Vietnam this summer.
The aim of EIL Explore is to support people who have a history of voluntary involvement in their school, college or community. The awards recognise people who have demonstrated or who believe they can demonstrate leadership potential and people who would not ordinarily be in positions to travel abroad for such experiences. To find out more please click here.
Best Research Project at Education Awards
A team from ATU secured the Best Research Project award at the 2024 Education Awards ceremony for their Irish Students Wellbeing and ADHD project (I-SWAP) at a gala award ceremony in Dublin in April.
The project aims to enhance the wellbeing of university students with ADHD across the Island of Ireland. Supported by the North South Research Programme, this collaborative initiative between ATU and Ulster University has garnered widespread recognition for its impactful contributions to student welfare. To find our more please click here.
Testing new ablation technology in ovine lung
ATU Engineering student Noreen Kennedy’s project ‘Testing new microwave flexible ablation technology in ovine lung’ has won her the overall undergraduate competition award and the Biomedical Engineering category awards at ATU Galway’s annual Engineering Exhibition and Competition 2024. Noreen’s achievement gives her automatic entry into Engineer Ireland’s Innovative Student Engineer of the Year competition which takes place in Dublin in the autumn. To find out more please click here.
Global Best University-level Lean Sigma White Belt course
Class Central, a leading MOOC website have ranked the ATU Lean Sigma White Belt (MOOC), as the best university-level online course in their ranking of the ‘10 Best Lean Six Sigma Courses to Take in 2024’. Class Central describe the ATU Sligo MOOC as “the most comprehensive White Belt course” available. To find out more please click here.
Class Central rank the best online courses (both free and paid) in the world across 1200 Universities, 1000 Institutions and 80 course providers.
New Inclusive Curriculum Toolkit
Atlantic Technological University (ATU), South East Technological University (SETU), Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest (TUS) and Munster Technological University (MTU) have announced the launch of a new inclusive curriculum toolkit for use across the TU sector.
This toolkit has been developed as part of the Embedding Equality Diversity & Inclusion in the Curriculum of the new Technological University Sector (EDIT) Project and is designed as a practical guide to support the Technological University (TU) sector to implement inclusive curriculum principles across their universities. To find out more please click here.
ATU CAO Applicant
Newspaper 2024
ATU’s Schools Engagement team have produced a special newspaper for this year’s ATU CAO applicants to give them a taste of student life at our university. You can read the newspaper by clicking here.
ATU and FoodCloud Sign Memorandum of Understanding
ATU and FoodCloud, an Irish non-profit dedicated to fighting food waste and food insecurity, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a partnership that aims to enhance educational opportunities, reduce food waste, and support sustainable practices in food systems. The collaboration will introduce several educational programs, including a Certificate in Sustainable Food Surplus Practice which includes specialised modules on food legislation, safety, and surplus food management. To find out more please click here.
President of ATU, Dr Orla Flynn with Co-Founder of FoodCloud, Aoibheann O’Brien.
ATU in the Media
Rapid policy changes needed for biodiversity
The climate and biodiversity do not have time for incremental policy changes in agriculture says ATU’s Dr James Moran. To find out more please click here.
Fire, water, light and luck; Bealtaine traditions in Ireland
Bear hair, dino bones and marine microbes
ATU’s Dr Shane O’Reilly is interviewed in the Silcion Republic about what inspired him to become a researcher, his current projects and the challenges he faces as a researcher. To read the interview please click here.
ATU lecturer Dr Marion McGarry writes in RTÉ Brainstorm about how our ancestors engaged in a wide range of rites and rituals on 1 May which were believed to bring good luck. To read please click here.
Electricity from farm waste: how biogas could help Malawians with no power
ATU researcher Ehiaze Ehimen and colleague Thomas Robin explain how small biogas plants could meet rural energy needs in Malawi. To read more please click here.
Preparing students for the workplace
In the Irish Times Fiona O’Donnell, Careers Officer at ATU, talks about how her office provides support, information, and advice to students to help them achieve their career goals and prepare them for the workplace. ATU also offers in-house employability workshops, while employers can upload job vacancies to the University’s student careers portals. To read more please click here.
How a spoonful of soil could help solve Ireland’s missing murder victims
ATU’s Professor John Cassella is among a handful of scientists in Europe and around the world recording and researching the macabre world of human decomposition and what happens to our bodies after we die. His research was recently featured in the Irish Examiner. To read more please click here.
