ATU Magazine Issue 21 Sept/Oct

Editor: Anne Donnelly

Design: The Foundation

Photography: Conor Doherty, Alison Laredo, James Connolly, Jessica Priddy, Mike Shaughnessy, Clive Wasson, Aengus McMahon. Lauren Fitzgerald, Paul McGuckin, Brad Anderson, Katarina Rozvadska, Ugnius Brazdziunas, and ATU staff

Cover photo: Shauna Bligh's work from the BA in Contemporary Art programme, which was exhibited at the Creative Arts and Media Exhibition in ATU Galway city (Wellpark Road) campus in June.

Contributors: ATU Communications team, Orlaith Ní Mheachair, Stephen Glennon, Dr Carina Ginty, Maria Gallagher, Rory McMorrow, Deirdre Byrne, Finola Howe, Joe O’Connor, Dr Breandán Mac Conamhna, Dr Perry Share, Dr Ian F. Kennedy, Dr Niamh Plunkett, Kate Brown, Bernadette Larkin, and Jorden McMenamin.

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

1

Welcome from the Editor

3

University Updates

- A Vibrant Start to the Academic Year - ATU Forges Key US University Partnerships

- Two New Campus Developments

7

Alumnus Thought Leader

- Unlocking Human Potential in the Age of AI

11

Research News

- The First Annual RISE@ATU Summer School

- PhD Student Researcher Spotlight

- ATU Researchers Shine at EU GREEN Young Researchers Marathon

18

Engagement and Innovation

- Celebrating ATU’s External Engagement Successes

- Making it Possible for People to Age at Home with Dignity

- MakerSpace Update

- Access & Widening Participation Service Connects with Communities

- ATU Discover Musket Balls and Clay Pipes During Fort Excavation

- ATU brings Outdoor Education to Canada

37 Sustainability

- Science, Sea and Sustainability

- Sustainable Learning Futures with the new ATU ESD Academy

- Student’s Short Film Goes Global

- Debut Novel by ATU Graduate

- New Books by ATU Staff: Past and Present

- Staff Recognised for Teaching and Learning Achievements

- Legends of Mayo Ladies Football Honoured in Croke Park

- ATU Teddy Bear Hospital 2025

ATU Celebrates

- Creative Arts and Design Exhibitions 2025

- Icons 2025 Furniture and Design Exhibition

- ATU Team’s Success in the International Robothon Grand Challenge

- First Place in Global WTUN Student Innovation Competition

- Engineering Students win National Merit Award

Welcome from the Editor

Dear Reader,

I hope you had a lovely summer, and welcome to Issue 21 of our ATU Magazine. Earlier this month, we opened our doors to our new first-year students and are delighted to see them settling into life at university. We wish them well on their journey through third-level education.

Our cover photo for this issue is artwork by Shauna Bligh, which was part of the end-of-year Creative Arts and Media Exhibition held in ATU Galway city in June. On pages 40-43 you can see more photos from this exhibition and from the Arts, Design and Architecture exhibitions in Sligo, the Donegal Graduate Fashion Show, and not forgetting the Furniture and Design Exhibition held in our Connemara campus.

A must-read in this issue on page seven, is an opinion piece by ATU Alumnus Joe O’Connor, CEO and Co-founder of Work Time Revolution, on how we can unlock human potential in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

He argues that the 'automate and replace' narratives that dominate today's AI discourse are neither the only path nor the right one. The real conversation, he says: “should be about redesigning work so people can do fewer, higherimpact things better, while AI handles the task volume.”

Once again, we are proud to bring you news on pages 44-47, of some of our students’ successes. They include wins at an International Robothon Grand Challenge, the Enterprise Ireland Student Entrepreneur Awards and a short film that has won several international awards and has been screened in six countries.

In research news, we cover some of our postgraduate student research activities from participation in an EU GREEN research marathon to our first annual RISE@ATU Summer School, and also an interview with Ali Usama, one of our PhD students. There are many more interesting stories in this issue and whether you are a member of our student or staff body, or are one of our regional, national or international partners, I hope you find something of interest here.

Best Wishes Anne Donnelly

Focal ón Eagarthóir

A chara,

Tá súil agam go raibh samhradh iontach agat, agus do chéad míle fáilte chuig an 21 eagrán d’Irisleabhar OTA. Níos luaithe an mhí seo chuireamar fáilte roimh mic léinn nua na chéad bliana chuig OTA agus tá áthas orainn iad a fheiceáil ag socrú isteach i saol na hOllscoile. Guímid gach rath orthu ar a n-aistear tríd an oideachas tríú leibhéal.

Is saothar ealaíne le Shauna Bligh atá ar clúdach tosaigh an eagrán seo, saothar ealaíne a bhí mar chuid den Taispeántas Ealaíon Cruthaitheacha agus Meán a bhí in OTA Chathair na Gaillimhe i mí an Mheithimh. Is féidir tuilleadh grianghraf ón taispeántas sin agus ó taispeántais Ealaíon, Dearaidh agus Ailtireachta Shligigh, chomh maith le Taispeántas Faisin Iarchéime Dhún na nGall agus an Taispeántas Troscáin agus Dearaidh a bhí ar champas Chonamara a fheiceáil ar leathnach 40-43.

Is fiú go mór alt Joe O’Connor, iar-mhac léinn agus POF chomh maith le comhbhunaitheoir Work Time Revolution, faoin gcaoi a bhféadfaimid cumas an duine a scaoileadh saor in aois na hintleachta saorga (AI) a léamh san eagrán seo (leathanach 7).

Áitíonn sé nach iad na hinsintí 'uathoibrithe agus athsholáthar', atá i réim i ndiscúrsa na hintleachta saorga inniu, an t-aon bhealach ná an ceann ceart. Ba cheart a deir sé go mbeadh an fíor-chomhrá “faoin obair a mhúnlú ionas gur féidir le daoine níos lú rudaí a dhéanamh ar bhealach níos fearr, agus rudaí a bhfuil tionchar níos airde acu, agus an Intleacht shaorga a bheith ag láimhseáil líon na dtascanna."

Arís eile, táimid bródúil as nuacht (leathanach 44-47) a roinnt libh faoin méid atá bainte amach ag roinnt de na mic léinn. Ina measc; bua ag Dúshlán Mór Idirnáisiúnta Robothon, Gradaim Fiontraí Mac Léinn Fhiontraíocht Éireann agus gearrscannán a bhuaigh roinnt gradaim idirnáisiúnta agus a taispeánadh i sé thír.

Sa chuid a bhaineann le nuacht taighde, clúdófar cuid dár ngníomhaíochtaí taighde na mac léinn iarchéime ó rannpháirtíocht i maratón taighde EU GREEN go dtí chéad Scoil Samhraidh bhliantúil RISE@ATU agus agallamh le Ali Usama, duine dár mic léinn PhD.

Tá go leor scéalta suimiúla eile san eagrán seo, 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.

Le dea-ghuí

Anne Donnelly

University Updates A Vibrant Start to the Academic Year

September marked an exciting start to the academic year at ATU, as we welcomed almost 5,000 new students to our nine campuses. The diverse intake included mature students, those progressing from FET-QQI programmes, recent Leaving Certificate graduates, and international students from more than 50 countries, along with several new professional and trade-focused apprenticeship groups.

Amongst the new programmes starting this September are a Master of Pharmacy and a Degree in Physiotherapy.

The new Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) five-year programme will deliver pharmacy education and training which meets the requirements set out in pharmacy law, allowing the student to develop the competencies necessary to become registered to practice as a pharmacist in Ireland.

The Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Physiotherapy, a four-year honours degree programme, will develop learners to become well-rounded, autonomous practitioners capable of managing change, supporting their profession and patients, and developing professionally as physiotherapists.

New students at ATU St Angelas.

Left to right: Cormac Turley, Paddy Fitzsimons and Mika Nijhuis, new students at ATU Connemara.

Francesca Coppola, a second-year Insurance Practitioner apprentice working with Searing Point Wealth Management at the 10th intake of Insurance Practitioner apprentices at ATU Sligo.

Anatasiia Starodubets (Ukraine) who will study Business at ATU’s Sligo campus pictured with Lauren McGill who will study Construction Management.

Victor Marczenia (Poland), and Aoife Gallagher, both new students in Culinary Arts at ATU’s Killybegs campus.

New students at ATU Galway: Rocio Fernandez, Flo Walsh and Shadé Dillion.

New students at ATU’s Letterkenny campus: Diarmuid O'Toole, Callum Clarke and Mark McDaid.

Val Casserly, a new Outdoor Education student at ATU Mayo.

ATU Forges Key US University Partnerships

to global engagement and knowledge exchange, and outreach in the greater Boston area.

ATU conducted a high-level strategic visit to the United States of America from 27 May to 4 June, which resulted in the signing of two new Memoranda of Agreement (MoA) with the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), and the University of Massachusetts Boston (UMass Boston).

The visit included two significant events hosted by ATU. The ATU Showcase at Ireland House in Chicago provided an opportunity to highlight ATU’s academic and research strengths.

During the showcase, ATU President, Dr Orla Flynn, discussed the evolution and future trajectory of one of Ireland’s largest Technological Universities, where she stressed the importance of transatlantic partnerships.

Before the showcase, a signing ceremony for an MoA with UIC took place at the Innovation Centre within UIC’s main campus, in the presence of their Chancellor, Dr Marie Lynn Miranda and Dr Orla Flynn. One key objective of the agreement is the advancement of urological innovation through bilateral collaboration in research, clinical training, and medical technologies.

Following the engagements in Chicago, ATU further expanded its international network by signing an MoU with the University of Massachusetts Boston. The agreement was signed by the Chancellor of UMass Boston, Dr Marcelo Suárez-Orozco, and Dr Orla Flynn.

This new partnership is set to foster broader collaboration across various academic and research disciplines, including initial engagements in Nursing, Science and Technology, Business and Data Analytics, and Management Information Systems. This underscores ATU’s commitment

Prior to the signing in Boston, ATU hosted a partnership breakfast with UMass Boston, which took place at their waterfront campus. This event brought together over 30 alumni, partners, and potential partners of ATU from various sectors to discuss partnership opportunities, bi-directional exchanges, and international collaboration. ATU was honoured to be joined by former US Ambassador to Ireland, Claire Cronin for this event

The breakfast event was followed by an academic and research engagement session, where representatives from each university met to discuss their respective areas of expertise.

Commenting on the successful visit, Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President, said: “The objectives of our visit to the United States were to strengthen our international presence and to foster impactful global partnerships. The new agreements with the University of Illinois Chicago and the University of Massachusetts Boston will help us expand our research capabilities, enhance student opportunities, and drive innovation on an international stage. We are excited about the collaborative potential these relationships bring to our overarching global outlook, which will impact the development of our region in the North West of Ireland.”

Two New Campus Developments

ATU welcomes the commencement of two major projects located at its Galway City and Donegal Letterkenny campuses under the Higher Education Public Private Partnership (PPP) Programme.

The Galway campus will benefit from a new state-of-the-art STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) building to be located on the east side of the Galway City campus, facing the Ballybane Road. The 5,500 m² building will provide additional teaching, learning and laboratory space in STEM disciplines, predominantly serving Engineering, Science and Computing.

The Donegal Letterkenny campus will gain a new 5,100m2 building, comprising a new library, computer laboratories, classrooms, lecture theatres, staff office accommodation and extended dining facilities. The project also includes a new throughcampus pedestrian and cycleway.

Both buildings build on the existing campus buildings and provide the University with the physical infrastructure to support students in a modern, purpose-built environment and enhance the overall campus experience for staff and students.

These developments are part of the Higher Education Public Private Partnership (PPP) programme announced in 2017, which is delivering eleven new STEM facilities across multiple campuses in Ireland. Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President, said: “I’m truly delighted to see our two PPP projects commencing in Galway City and Letterkenny, and I want to acknowledge the patience of staff and

students alike as these developments were long-awaited. The new buildings will not only enhance our campuses but also provide much-needed space in areas where we have seen significant student growth. I want to especially thank all at the HEA and DFHERIS, as well as our own Building and Estates teams, for their diligent work throughout this long process. Finally, I wish the contractors a smooth building process over the next few years as we look forward to seeing these facilities come to life on our two campuses!”

“

These transformative projects are key to the University’s long-term growth and evolution. The new buildings will greatly enhance the campus experience, providing high-quality spaces where our staff and students can thrive."

Eoin Bradley, Head of Capital Development, ATU

Proposed STEM Building at ATU Galway.

Proposed Library and General Education Building at ATU Letterkenny.

Alumnus Thought Leader

ATU Alumnus, Joe O'Connor writes about unlocking human potential in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how transforming AI anxiety into agency can reshape the future of work.

Value Over Volume

We are living through the most consequential shift in how work gets done in our lifetimes. Yet the instinct in many boardrooms is to treat AI as a turbocharger for output: more tasks, faster.

If digital labour will always outpace humans on speed and volume, then designing the future of work around human efficiency is a dead end. The real conversation should be about redesigning work so people can do fewer, higher-impact things better, while AI handles the task volume.

Joe O'Connor is CEO and Co-founder of Work Time Revolution, a global consulting and research firm redesigning work for the age of AI. An ATU alumnus and former students’ union president, he has led the world's largest four-day workweek pilots, advised SMEs, startups and Fortune 500s, and is co-author of the upcoming book “DO MORE IN FOUR: Why It's Time For A Shorter Workweek” (Harvard Business Review Press, 2026).

That shift—from efficiency to effectiveness—is the difference between adding more lanes to a jammed motorway and building a connected network that gets people where they need to go. It's also the mindset shift that will decide whether AI becomes a force for widespread progress or yet another driver of polarisation and burnout.

The Trust Crisis

Just 17% of Canadians believe that "unleashing the full potential of AI" would be good for them, while 31% believe it will be bad, and 52% remain uncertain or indifferent. The story in Ireland is almost certainly very similar and should give every leader pause.

According to the EU's latest Generative AI Outlook Report, the #1 barrier to AI adoption isn't cost, skills, or strategy—it's time. While 85% of enterprises say AI is a strategic priority, fewer than 20% have redesigned work to support adoption. Just 11% of employees report receiving structured support to use AI tools.

This leads to what the report describes as 'shadow AI at scale'— employees using unsanctioned AI tools on their own time, leading to not only governance issues but a lack of shared learning, structure or support.

“The sizable gap between AI ambition and adoption is a work design problem, not a technology problem. And solving it requires a systematic approach that addresses four critical dimensions."

1. Break the barriers: make the upside tangible or expect resistance

The first step is overcoming psychological resistance by creating a compelling win-win narrative. New research from AI enterprise software platform Writer has found that 41% of Millennial and Gen Z employees are actively sabotaging their company's AI strategy by refusing to engage with AI tools or outputs, while Kyndrl data shows that 45% of U.S. CEOs believe most of their employees are resistant or even openly hostile to AI.

This should come as no great surprise. For much of the workforce, their recent experience of supposed productivity-enhancing tools has been a bait-and-switch: more expectations and workload coupled with more clutter and distraction.

They've been told technology would make their lives easier, and instead, it makes their phones buzz at 10pm. Achieving buy-in will

require more than hype and the promise of greater productivity. It demands a clear case for how AI improves the quality of both people's work experiences and their lives outside of work.

The antidote involves building collective buy-in through tangible mutual benefits. We call these "AI

Time Dividends"—time reclaimed from low-value 'busywork' that becomes protected time for focus, innovation, or recovery.

“Some forward-thinking organisations are already making this connection explicit. They're linking AI adoption to schedule flexibility, workload sustainability, or even exploring how AI can enable a four-day workweek.”

2. Create capacity: AI capability won't happen off the side of an overflowing desk

If teams are already at capacity, your AI plan is a deck, not a strategy. Trying to accelerate AI strategies against a backdrop of 'busywork' and burnout is like driving a Formula 1 car in rush-hour traffic.

The solution starts with diagnosing capacity blockers and workflow inefficiencies. Where is time being wasted? What meetings could be emails? Which processes have accumulated unnecessary steps?

Organisations then need to use this capacity to redesign their work structures and create dedicated space for AI experimentation and adoption, moving from 'side-ofdesk' learning to integrated AI development time.

One Toronto-based creative agency I worked with made a simple shift with big implications. Instead of pushing AI tools and training on overwhelmed, exhausted teams, they first used our work redesign process to free up half-a-day per person per week. They then launched internal "AI internships"—protected time for skill-building and tool testing. They fostered psychological safety for experimentation, making it clear that failure and mistakes were part of the journey.

When people weren't stealing moments between tasks to figure out AI and instead had actual space and permission to explore and fail safely, everything changed. Anxiety turned to curiosity and resistance became reinvention.

3. Shift the performance focus: effectiveness over efficiency

As task speed and volume are increasingly outsourced to digital labour, the things that matter for human performance are being fundamentally altered.

The skills and traits that will be at a premium and create the greatest advantage for organisations and people will be these five human capabilities:

• Creativity (innovation, curiosity and original thinking)

• Judgment (strategic decisionmaking with imperfect information)

• Connection (emotional intelligence and relationship building)

• Critical thinking (analysis and source discernment in an era of abundant content)

• Adaptability (learning agility and iteration)

Organisations that understand this new reality are already restructuring their incentive structures, leadership styles, learning and development approaches, and performance evaluations.

They're moving from action-based metrics (hours logged, tasks completed, outputs produced) to outcome-based metrics (problems solved, results achieved, value created). They're investing in developing these capabilities not as a nice-to-have, but as their core competitive advantage.

“How we educate people for the future workforce, and an AI-augmented world, will need to change.”

4. Redesign roles with people: from anxiety to agency

Employees are lying awake at 2am asking ChatGPT if AI will take their job, while organisations are having secret conversations about which roles AI will eliminate. This dynamic is inevitably leading us to a place of fear and inertia.

What if organisations gave people agency in reimagining their roles? If instead of engaging in a top-down restructure or behind-the-scenes productivity play, they opted for a collaborative, transparent, employee-led redesign?

As described in Sangeet Paul Choudary's new book RESHUFFLE, AI acts as a catalyst to unbundle tasks into component parts, and those who will succeed will do so by ‘rebundling’ tasks in response to shifting systems and constraints in ways that elevate their strengths. In this fashion, we can empower people to collectively reimagine and reshape their roles.

We can challenge them to explore the following questions:

• What could your role become if routine tasks were automated?

• What new value could you create?

• What new problems could you solve?

• How could you combine high-value human tasks with AIenabled efficiency?

• How could your team's workflows shift?

This approach transforms fear into opportunity by empowering people to explore what parts of their role could be automated and the opportunities this could unlock, how their role might evolve in the future, and what new value they could create with more time and space. Building trust through transparent communication and open conversations about role evolution is essential.

The choice before us

The reductive, extractive 'automate and replace' narratives that dominate today's AI discourse are neither the only path nor the right one.

The path to unlocking human potential in the age of AI isn't about creating a false dichotomy of enterprises versus employees. It's about sending a clear message that when we succeed together with AI, everyone shares in the benefits.

Will AI be good for your people? That depends entirely on whether you design it to be. The organisations that take a human-centric approach, by creating genuine shared gains and giving people agency in their own transformation, will be ahead of the pack when it comes to both technology and talent.

For those of us in positions to influence this transition, we have a responsibility to ensure AI becomes a force for collective advancement, not concentrated advantage. Both the choice and the opportunity are ours.

Image generated by OpenArt AI, an AI art generator that transforms text descriptions into visual art.

Research News

First Annual RISE@ATU Summer School Held

ATU held its first annual RISE@ATU Summer School at the ATU Donegal Letterkenny campus from 27 – 30 May in support of the research community, with over 120 researchers, staff, and special guests taking part in a series of thematic workshops, panels, field trips, and social activities.

As an extensive postgraduate programme, the Summer School is part of the RISE@ATU project funded under the TU RISE (Research and Innovation Supporting Enterprise) scheme. To support the PhD candidates, this event sought to strengthen their understanding of the role research plays with regional enterprises.

Speaking about the significance of RISE@ATU, Dr. Orla Flynn, ATU President, said: “As the largest funded project in ATU history, RISE@ATU aims to build regional and economic growth, industrial specialism, and collaborations across companies and academia. TU RISE is a key funding scheme that supports ATU to develop opportunities that will enhance research capacity and engagement with regional enterprises.”

Research Meets Regional Change

A pivotal moment during the RISE@ATU Summer School was the opportunity for the research community to meet with several key figures, including Barry Guckian, Programme Executive at Northern and Western Regional Assembly (NWRA), Ciaran Mullooly, Member of

the European Parliament (MEP), Neil McDermott, Senior Manager, System Development and Performance Management (HEA), and Bobbie Baker, Programme Executive for European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Bringing together nearly 60 PhD researchers funded under TU RISE, the initiative is designed to link research and innovation with industries under Ireland’s Smart Specialisation Strategy. Each project is listed under five industrial specialisms and every researcher will engage directly with an enterprise placement.

Addressing the PhD candidates, Ciaran Mullooly shared insights into the importance of their work: “Your involvement will make a contribution back into the economy of Europe… You will be associated with specific projects and teams, through the European Union or otherwise, that

will lead to significant growth in our performance economically, particularly in research and the area of science.”

Connections and Community

The RISE@ATU Summer School brought together research staff and students from all nine ATU campuses to build meaningful collaborations and explore new contexts for their research. The broad theme, ‘Meet Our Doctoral Researchers’, gave many researchers across various fields and disciplines the chance to meet for the first time.

Sessions held throughout the week varied from embedding creativity into the research process with Re-Act Productions, exploring wellbeing and sleep practices with Tom Coleman, Sustainability and Public Policy with Cathal O Donoghue, and industry engagement training with Dr Lorna Ross, among many other talks.

Dr Richéal Burns at the RISE@ATU Summer School.

Each Postgraduate Research Training Programme (PRTP) also held specialised workshops for each of their themes, addressing topics such as developing a user-design approach to research, social media and communication strategy, postPhD career planning, and measuring impact in health research. On the final day, researchers heard from PhD graduates who shared their experiences post-completion of their research projects and life beyond their doctorate in an Alumni Panel.

Two fieldtrips took place, Glenveagh National Park and Wild Ireland, providing the research community an opportunity to explore and connect with the local region. Several social events were also organised including a dinner at the Mount Errigal Hotel with staff and students, and a postgraduate night out at Century Complex.

Researcher Reflections

Feedback from the Summer School was impressive, with a rating of 4.19 out of 5 stars amongst those who completed the feedback survey.

The diversity of workshops, presentations, social gatherings, and connections with peers were listed as what they most enjoyed. Key highlights included that the event was “extremely wonderful, perfect blend of learning, networking and growth”. Research candidates commented that they were impressed by the PRTP sessions and presentations, noting the “thoughtful balance between the distribution of overall skill development for all cohorts and focused, cohortspecific workshops”.

Another key highlight was the opportunity “to strengthen their skills, gain new research perspectives, and

Student

researchers

on the RISE@ATU Summer School

connect with colleagues from diverse academic backgrounds”. Suggestions for next year included an increase in field trip opportunities and social activities. As an annual event, the Summer Schools will play a pivotal role in building an interconnected research community that supports regional and economic development.

A huge amount of effort, dedication and care was put into the planning and organisation of the event by the organising committee led by Dr Richéal Burns, Director of the Health and Biomedical (HEAL) Strategic Centre and co-lead of the THRIVE PRTP, who was supported by fellow PRTP leads across the research community. RISE@ ATU is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Northern and Western Regional Programme 2021-27.

“This was a good opportunity to connect with fellow researchers and members of my PRTP. We were allowed to exchange ideas, share resources and explore one another’s research.”

“Gained new research perspectives, and connected with colleagues from diverse academic backgrounds.”

“A thoughtful balance between the distribution of overall skill development for all cohorts and focused, cohortspecific workshops.”

PhD Student Researcher Spotlight: Ali Usama

PhD student, Ali Usama shares his experiences at ATU, his educational journey to date, highlights of his time at the University and his plans for the future.

What experiences or influences have shaped your educational journey?

As a software engineer, my focus was on solving individual client problems. However, my perspective shifted when I engaged with social impact projects. Contributing to Tayaba.org’s H2O Wheel initiative and the “1 Million Meals” initiative for NHS staff revealed technology's capacity for good.

Additionally, co-leading a Zero Littering digital awareness campaign demonstrated how even small tech interventions could drive behavioural change at scale.

During my Master’s by Research, I grasped the power of combining technical expertise with multidisciplinary thinking to tackle global challenges and create solutions with lasting social impact. This insight shaped my dedication to research and innovation

Why did you choose ATU to further your studies?

ATU immediately stood out because of its alignment with applied research and community engagement. The university's ethos of "empowering through innovation" deeply resonated with my values, particularly my belief in technology's role in social good. I saw ATU not just as an academic institution but as a platform that actively encourages students to become solution-oriented leaders in society.

I was particularly drawn to the PhD project on infant feeding bias among healthcare professionals. The prospect of contributing to such a socially meaningful project in Ireland, a country grappling with significant challenges in breastfeeding rates, was a powerful motivator, driving my decision to join ATU and dedicate myself to research with tangible, lifeimproving potential

Were there specific initiatives or opportunities at ATU that attracted you?

I was drawn to the University's focus on digital transformation and its encouragement of interdisciplinary research, as these areas are crucial for tackling complex societal challenges. The opportunities for student-led initiatives and for students to engage in meaningful projects also appealed to me. The N-TUTORR programme stood out for its dedication to student empowerment and ethical innovation.

What are your most memorable experiences at ATU?

A standout moment was serving as a student panelist at the N-TUTORR Annual Showcase in Croke Park, where I represented student perspectives on topics such as the ethical use of AI in academia and academic integrity.

N-TUTORR annual showcase in Croke Park.

I also had the privilege of presenting my PhD research on infant feeding bias among healthcare professionals at international conferences in Croatia, Estonia, and the USA, which were invaluable for engaging with global experts.

Other memorable experiences include my participation in the EU Green Blended Intensive Programme on AI in Sports and Health in Parma, Italy. Furthermore, my involvement in the Catalyst Bootcamp and Alpha Innovation Bootcamp were crucial for learning the practicalities of startup development and entrepreneurial skills.

Working closely with industry partners on digital health innovations has also been rewarding, directly bridging theory with real-world application.

How did you benefit from your time as ATU Student Champion in the N-TUTORR Programme?

Being a Student Champion was one of the most empowering experiences of my academic journey. It gave me the opportunity to co-design inclusive learning environments, advocate for responsible AI in education, and represent student voices at a national level.

One of the most impactful parts of the programme was the N-TUTORR road trip to various technological university (TU) campuses across Ireland. It highlighted how diverse student experiences are and reinforced the importance of meaningful student engagement in shaping higher education. A key takeaway was that true educational transformation

must be inclusive, student-led, and grounded in empathy and ethics.

The N-TUTORR Programme has transformed both my personal and academic development. It has enhanced my leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills and I’ve learned how student-focused research and lived experiences can shape educational policy and practice, bridging the gap between theory and real-world impact.

“The N-TUTORR Programme stands as an example of what student-led, inclusive innovation can achieve when institutions genuinely invest in their learners.”

What are your plans for the future?

My immediate plan is to complete my PhD, delving deeper into the critical intersection of digital health, psychology, and equity.

In my role as ATU’s STRIDE Digital Social Innovator, I aim to promote inclusive digital literacy, co-design user-centered digital tools, and contribute to sustainable digital ecosystems

My long-term vision is to operate at the dynamic crossroads of academia, policy and industry. I aim to develop and scale AI-driven solutions that directly address health disparities and significantly improve the quality of life, particularly for underserved rural and border communities – mirroring

the goals of the PEACEPLUS STRIDE Programme

I am also passionate about fostering the next generation of innovators through mentorship and actively promoting equitable access to STEM education globally, inspired by my own journey from Pakistan to Ireland.

How do you hope to use your experiences and skills to make an impact in your field or community?

I believe that education and innovation must be purposedriven and community-led. I intend to leverage my unique blend of interdisciplinary expertise to build ethical, scalable, and truly usercentred digital tools.

My specific focus will remain on areas like maternal and child health, where targeted digital interventions can yield life-saving results. Drawing on the principles of co-design and inclusivity I've embraced through STRIDE and N-TUTORR, my broader aim is to democratise technology, ensuring that the digital age leaves no one behind, especially in vulnerable and marginalized populations.

What advice would you give to anyone aspiring to pursue higher education?

Believe in the power of your story. Higher education is far more than just acquiring degrees; it's a transformative journey of selfdiscovery and identifying your unique contribution to the world. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, courageously challenge norms,

and always lead with empathy. Actively seek out mentors, embrace collaborative opportunities with peers, and always stay relentlessly curious. Your path may not be linear, but every experience adds invaluable depth to your narrative.

What were some of the challenges you encountered during your academic journey?

Every setback has the potential to become a powerful source of strength and resilience. My decision to pursue higher education in Ireland came with unforeseen personal challenges, notably the complexities of visa policies that have, to date, prevented my family from joining me. Leaving my two young children, who are now aged five and eight but were much younger when I first came to Ireland three years ago, and still waiting for them to join me, has been difficult.

However, navigating this ongoing separation, facing other challenges like visa rejections and adapting to a new country and culture, has deepened my resolve and clarified my purpose.

“Looking forward, I hope to continue being a vocal advocate for ethical innovation, particularly in AI, and championing the student voice in education and policymaking.”

I remain incredibly grateful to ATU for being such a pivotal and supportive university.

About Ali Usama

Ali grew up in Pakistan and is a PhD candidate at ATU Donegal, specialising in computing and digital healthcare. Prior to joining ATU he worked as a freelance Software Engineering developer. Recently, he was appointed as a Digital Social Innovator for ATU, reflecting his commitment to advancing digital innovation in education. Since serving as an N-TUTORR Student Champion for ATU, Ali has been passionately engaged with two key themes: academic integrity, and digital transformation in teaching and learning.

Ali firmly believes that higher education institutions must uphold the authority and value of information. He emphasises that fostering a culture of integrity, critical thinking, and intellectual growth is essential for preparing the next generation of responsible and innovative students.

His strong work ethic, combined with his deep knowledge and effective management of responsibilities, makes Ali a highly valuable member of the ATU community.

ATU Researchers Shine at EU GREEN Young Researchers Marathon

In April, a delegation of 21 ATU research students proudly took part in the EU GREEN Young Researchers Marathon, hosted by the University of Extremadura in Badajoz, Spain. Held over two days, 24–25 April, this vibrant event brought together early-stage researchers from across the nine EU GREEN Alliance universities to share knowledge, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and showcase research aligned with EU GREEN’s sustainability goals.

ATU were warmly welcomed on 22 April by the University of Extremadura (UEx), leaders of the EU GREEN Alliance. Following a cultural tour of the city on the first evening, the next day our researchers took part in a communications workshop, resulting in the production of a podcast covering their individual research stories. This inspiring resource is freely available for students and staff to develop interest and foster involvement in ATU Research.

At the Research Marathon, ATU researchers seized the opportunity to present and robustly defend their transdisciplinary research to an audience of fellow EU GREEN researchers. ATU research spanned all four conference themes-Social and Legal Science; Engineering and Architecture; Health Sciences; Sciences and Arts and Humanities.

ATU researchers presented on topics such as:

• Assessing the Effectiveness of Digitalisation as a Tool for sustainable Regional Development in Ireland’s North-Western Region (NUTS-II)

• Entrepreneurship in Supply Chains: a Catalyst for Sustainable Transformation

• Challenges and Innovations in 3D Reconstruction for Precision Agriculture: A Path to Sustainable Farming

• The Establishment of a National Physical Literacy Monitor

• Exploring Infant feeding Explicit and Implicit Bias among Healthcare Professionals

• Quantifying and Capitalising on Irish Water Sports for Planetary Health.

Representatives from 19 different companies and organisations in Badajoz engaged with ATU researchers during the conference and were impressed with their progressive, applied sustainable research. The researchers also had fruitful discussions with their EU GREEN counterparts. With time, these networks will lead to further research and international employment opportunities for EU GREEN researchers. In total, there were 169 conference presentations — these included over 30 online presentations.

Professor Frances Lucy, ATU Lead for EU GREEN, said: “ATU’s participation in this event reinforced our strong engagement in the EU GREEN Alliance and affirmed the calibre and diversity of our early-career research community. Events like these not only elevate our profile internationally but also empower our staff and students to contribute meaningfully to Europe's sustainable future.”

The Young Researchers Marathon marked the largest international delegation so far of ATU research students. Professor Lucy said: “This was only made possible by the efforts of ATU Global and the EU GREEN teams who worked consistently with each student on individual Erasmus mobilities, visas and travel arrangements, and I want to pay special thanks and tribute to them. I also wish to express ATU EU GREEN’s gratitude to our hosts at University of Extremadura, who welcomed and motivated our researchers to present as professionals. They progressed in a very short space of time and benefited from their experience at the EU GREEN Young Researchers Marathon. We look forward to the next edition in 2026!”

“ Participating in the EU GREEN Young Researchers Marathon has definitely had a positive impact on my study. During my presentation session, I received valuable feedback that will help shape the course of my current research. As the event included participants from other EU GREEN Alliance institutions, it provided a unique opportunity to network with fellow researchers in similar fields. This has helped me identify potential research groups that I could collaborate with in the future.”

Pranavsingh Dhunnoo, PhD student in the Faculty of Engineering and Technology

“ The event gave me the opportunity to present my initial research idea and helped me get feedback regarding my research project. It also helped me to connect with researchers working on the related projects.”

Farhan Ahmad, PhD student from the Innovation, Digitalisation, Enterprise and Society (IDEAS) PRTP

Abdul Fatah, one of 21 ATU research students, who presented their work to EU GREEN researchers and local industry representatives at the Young Researchers Marathon.

Engagement and Innovation

In the June edition of our ATU magazine, we introduced our new ATU External Engagement Strategy, outlining our commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships beyond the University. In this issue, we highlight a selection of key initiatives that exemplify how ATU is actively enhancing collaboration with local communities, industry leaders, and public sector organisations — strengthening our role as a catalyst for regional development and innovation.

ATU Sligo Innovation Centre

Mayo Students Win National Youth Enterprise Award for Social Impact

ATU Sligo Innovation Centre hosted the annual Foróige Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) Regional Finals 2025. The students were supported by Innovation Centre staff where they pitched their business and received feedback, encouragement and advice to prepare for the next round of competition. The winners progressed through to the national finals at Croke Park on 14 May which featured 24 youth-led businesses and over 120 young people from across the country.

Andrew Ardeleanu and Jason Heraty of Foróige Connect, Castlebar won the Best Social Enterprise Award for their business, Sensory Nature Crafts. It is a thoughtful and wellbeing-focused enterprise that provides calming craft kits designed to support mental health and sensory development in young people.

They said: “We wanted to create something that helps people feel calm and connected, especially younger kids,” said Andrew. “Winning this award means so much to us - it shows that business can be about care and community too.”

Andrew Ardeleanu and Jason Heraty. Credit: Photocall Ireland.

Plan Energy to partner with leading solar power provider

Plan Energy (PED), a consultancy and Renewable Energy project development company based in the Innovation Centre at ATU Sligo, is playing a crucial role in Ireland's energy transition.

PED focuses on large-scale renewable energy projects across Ireland and the UK and has recently partnered with leading solar energy firms BNRG and Impax Asset Management. The aim is to deliver up to one gigawatt (GW) of solar power over the next five years - enough to power hundreds of thousands of homes. The partnership begins with eight major projects totalling 600 megawatts (MW), combining solar panels and battery storage to support Ireland's climate targets for 2030.

"This partnership brings together Plan Energy's knowledge of land, planning and grid access with BNRG and Impax's experience in funding and building solar projects", said Gavin Forkan, director of Plan Energy Developments. With projects underway and more in the pipeline, Plan Energy is playing an active role in Ireland's energy transition.

Precision

Twin win EI feasibility study funding

Congratulation to the ATU-based research team, 'Precision Twin', who recently completed the Explorer DeepTech pre-commercialisation programme.

The team, led by postdoctoral researcher Mandana Kariminejad with support from Marion McAfee, David Tormey and Alan Hernon, pitched their idea to investors, industry leaders and Enterprise Ireland (EI) commercialisation experts.

They were successful in securing EI Feasibility funding to explore the market potential of the technology. The concept, which arose from Mandana's PhD work, involves digital twin technology to improve efficiency in injection moulding.

The Explorer programme is an annual DeepTech precommercialisation programme run by the Tyndall Institute, Cork.

The Owl of Wisdom returns to ATU Sligo

The popular bird was missed by many, and we were asked numerous times, up and down the country, when we could expect it back. Popular belief had it that the owl went into hibernation during the upgrade to the Innovation Centre last year!

We were delighted to welcome its return to Sligo last spring just in time for the summer and beyond. It is much easier now to direct people to our Innovation Centre in ATU Sligo by giving the owl as a reference point. The mural was recreated by popular street artist Friz.

“ Look for the Owl and there you will find Wisdom and Innovation. ”

Plan Energy team at ATU Sligo Innovation Centre.

Precision Twin team at Explorer pre-commercialisation programme.

Owl Mural at ATU Sligo Innovation Centre.

ATU iHub Clients and Alumni

Success Stories

Over the past eight months, the ATU iHub has continued to cultivate a vibrant innovation ecosystem, with both current incubator clients and successful alumni companies achieving major milestones across medtech, sports tech, and innovation. These breakthroughs not only highlight the growing influence of the iHub’s support system but also underscore the exceptional talent and ambition emerging from the west of Ireland. Over the next four pages we bring you news of some of these achievements.

Medtech momentum: innovations that heal

AuriGen Medical – reducing stroke risk

AuriGen Medical , a medical device company made headlines last October with the successful first-in-human implantation of its innovative Zenith left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) device. The procedure, performed by Dr Matt O'Connor, Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist at Auckland City Hospital, New Zealand, marks a significant milestone in the clinical validation of AuriGen's innovative Zenith LAAO device.

AuriGen Medical focuses on developing minimally invasive technologies for patients with chronic heart disease.

The Zenith device simplifies left atrial appendage (LAA) closure, crucial for reducing stroke risk in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients.

Zenith is implanted through a quick, minimally invasive procedure via a small groin incision. The delivery system guides the implant to the heart, sealing the LAA and offers fully controllable deployment which adapts to each patient's unique anatomy for a precise fit. Zenith is designed for non-traumatic repositioning, allowing physicians to perform leak-checks and real-time adjustments. Zenith's unique selfclosing covering encourages heart tissue-growth, designed to support healing and long-term LAA closure.

AuriGen Medical celebrating a successful First in Human Zenith procedure with Auckland City Hospital LAA implant team.

Nua Surgical – addressing C-section surgery challenges

Nua Surgical, an Irish medical device company innovating in maternal health secured €6.5 million Series A funding. The funding will be used to drive the manufacturing, testing, regulatory clearance and early commercialisation of the company product, the SteriCISION® C-Section Retractor. This innovative device is specifically designed to address the unique challenges of C-section surgery.

Caesarean sections are the most common major surgical procedure globally, with over 30 million performed each year. The SteriCISION® C-Section Retractor is the only self-retaining surgical retractor specifically designed for the unique dynamics of Caesarean surgery. This ergonomically designed and patented device provides fast, adjustable, and safe retraction, enabling clinicians to deliver the baby, repair tissue, and, crucially, identify bleeds.

Barry McCann, CEO of Nua Surgical, said: “Securing this Series A financing is a crucial milestone for Nua Surgical. It not only provides the capital needed to advance our product but also brings on board a group of experienced investors who share our vision for transforming maternal health. We are eager to leverage their expertise as we move towards commercializing SteriCISION®.”

SymPhysis Medical – patientcentered solutions in palliative care

SymPhysis Medical, which develops patient-centered solutions in palliative care and focuses on a digital catheter-based device to treat fluid buildup in the body caused by late-stage cancers, has secured €2.2 million to scale up its operations.

SymPhysis Medical's flagship technology, releaze™, is a drainage system specifically developed to alleviate the symptoms of malignant pleural effusion (MPE), which affects up to 50% of late-stage cancer patients, causing significant shortness of breath and chest pain.

SymPhysis Co-founders

Tim Jones and Dr Michelle Tierney with Gerard Ryan, Irrus Investments.

ATU iHub Alumni making global impact

Rockfield Medical Devices –mobile patient feeding systems

Rockfield Medical won the 2025 NHIA Innovation Award in the U.S. for their Mobility+ system. In awarding Rockfield Medical Devices, the NHIA recognised the medical device company’s commitment to drive positive change in the home and alternative site infusion space.

The Mobility+ system is the first elastomeric lightweight, mobile, silent enteral feeding system for patients aged two years and older, with a gastrostomy or jejunostomy feeding tube. This enteral feeding system works mechanically without need for gravity or electricity, and is wearable, filling a gap between simple bolus/ gravity systems and more complex pump systems.

CrannMed – researching knee osteoarthritis treatment solutions

iHub alumni company, CrannMed announced late last year that they had treated first patients in an FDAapproved knee osteoarthritis study

Knee Osteoarthritis leads to a poor quality of life with patients reporting chronic pain for an average of 13 years from clinical diagnosis to the almost inevitable knee replacement.

Knee Osteoarthritis now increasingly affects a younger patient population (45-65 years), leaving them in chronic pain, forcing them out of the workforce and increasing the likelihood of other medical issues.

Up until now patients have had no option but to give in and accept that knee pain is an inevitable part of the aging process. CrannMed want to help change this and restore people to healthy living.

ByoWave – increasing gaming accessibility for people with disabilities

ByoWave, a company that develops computer-game controllers to make gaming more accessible for people with disabilities secured €1.5 million funding last year. The funding will help ByoWave bring its Proteus controller to market.

The controller has been described as “like Lego for video game controllers” and comprises modular parts that connect to suit the user’s requirements. It was created to work for as many people as possible, whether gamers with disabilities or non-disabled gamers looking for a more customisable way to play. ByoWave is both a New Frontiers and ATU iHubs alumni company.

ByoWave co-founders Brendan Blacoe and Eibhlin O'Riordan.

The iHub Advantage

Behind these success stories is a robust support system. The ATU iHub provides mentorship, funding connections, office and lab space, access to a rich network of researchers and commercialisation experts. Its focus on medtech and connected health, has helped position the region as a hub of medical innovation in Ireland.

From first implants and funding rounds to international awards and patient impact, the stories of AuriGen, Nua Surgical, SymPhysis Medical and others illustrate a thriving innovation pipeline. These companies show what’s possible with the right foundation scaling globally, attracting investment, and positively impacting patient outcomes globally.

As the next generation of startups begins their journey, they follow in the footsteps of these pioneers, proving once again that ATU iHub is not just a launchpad, it's a place where world class innovation is born.

Cumasú Celebrate

The EMPOWER Cumasú Programme is a free female entrepreneurship programme for female entrepreneurs in the Gaeltacht areas of Mayo, Galway, Donegal, Kerry, Cork, Meath and Waterford. The programme is funded by Údarás na Gaeltachta and is delivered by ATU Innovation Hubs and the Rubicon Centre at Munster Technological University (MTU).

EMPOWER Cumasú successfully concluded two of its programmes over the summer months with two celebratory events.

The EMPOWER Cumasú Tús spring programme concluded on 17 June 2025, with 25 participants coming together in ATU Mayo from counties Donegal, Mayo, Galway, Meath and Cork for a pitch competition.

The competition marked an exciting culmination of the programme, where the participants had to hone their business ideas through a comprehensive market research assignment. Armed with valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the market opportunity, the participants had an opportunity to present their refined business concepts to a panel of independent judges, showcasing their innovation, strategy, and potential for growth.

The independent judging panel included, Helena Deane, Programme Manager – Ocean Knowledge 2030 at Marine Institute; Dr Deirdre Garvey, Head of Dept. of Environmental Humanities and Social Science, ATU Mayo and Ultan Ó Fátharta, Development Executive at Údarás na Gaeltachta.

The judges faced a tough challenge in selecting the winners for Best Overall Pitch and Best Opening Line.

In the end, joint first place for Best Overall Pitch was awarded to Carina Coyne, Joyce Country Wool (Galway) and Stephanie Cannon, Little Trickers (Galway), while Mairéad Ní Cheallaigh, Mil Na Mí (Meath) received the award for Best Opening Line. The judges praised the high standard of pitches delivered both in person and online, and extended their best wishes to all participants as they continue to grow and develop their businesses

The Cumasús Fás programme concluded on 4 July. This programme has been ongoing since September 2024 with 11 established businesswomen working together to achieve their strategic vision. These businesswomen came together for their final in-person session to celebrate their achievements and the powerful support network they’ve built together.

Not forgetting about their alumni, EMPOWER Cumasú hosted an online interactive workshop for its alumni community as well as the clients of the four innovation centres on 12 June 2025. The online workshop titled, "Setting Yourself Up for Success” was led by EMPOWER Cumasú alumna Marie Sweeney Khalifa of MSK Coaching. Topics explored included goal-setting, tools for success and barriers to success.

Technology and Knowledge Transfer

The Knowledge Transfer Office (KTO) is a relatively new office in ATU. It is dedicated to fostering innovation, collaboration and successful transfer of knowledge between industry and ATU’s research community across each of its nine campuses.

The KTO’s aim is to ensure that all 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.

The KTO has achieved several notable successes since it was established. These include:

• Stimulated more invention disclosures in 2024 than in the previous five years combined.

• Provided intellectual property training to researchers across ATU, empowering them to protect and commercialise their innovations.

• Supported over 150 industry projects, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.

• Hosted an Erasmus + Staff Exchange colleague from University of Turin in Italy.

• Updated the ATU Intellectual Property (IP) policy, which clarifies principles and rules that govern the creation, ownership and commercialisation of IP at ATU.

• Delivered a workshop to colleagues from The Technological Higher Education Network South Africa (THENSA).

• Integrated a new IP management software system, streamlining processes and increasing efficiency.

• Became a member of the Association of European Science and Technology Transfer Professionals (ASTP), connecting ATU with a wider network of innovation leaders across Europe.

Kieran Ryan, Head of Knowledge Transfer, ATU.

EMPOWER Cumasú participatents.

New Frontiers at ATU

Enterprise Ireland's New Frontiers programme supports ambitious founders with their new ideas. It is for first-time founders, people moving into a new sector or industry, or previous business owners who want to understand what's involved in building a successful and sustainable start-up.

Enterprise Ireland’s New Frontiers National Networking Day

Every year, the most recent Phase 2 cohorts from around the country are invited to a National Networking event. This year, 170 recent graduates from 18 locations around the country converged in Mullingar for a celebration of their achievements and some wise words to guide their next steps.

ATU was well represented with the current participants from the two programmes at ATU Galway-Mayo and Sligo-Donegal attending.

Also in attendance were Peter Burke TD, Minister of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment; Fiona Masterson, Ph.D., founder of The Learning Reservoir Ltd.; John Shorten, founder of www.Stockright.ie and Ciara Concannon, New Frontiers National Programme Manager.

In the 12 years since the New Frontiers programme started, over 6,000 individuals have completed the programme and developed their skills, confidence, and networks. In a recent review, 75% of respondents said that New Frontiers met or exceeded their expectations.

Throughout the networking day, there were opportunities to chat with fellow participants as well as key contacts from the ecosystem.

Beyond networking, the benefits of Phase 2 of the New Frontiers programme, include expert-led workshops, mentoring, incubation space, access to R&D capabilities, and a tax-free allowance.

New Frontiers is for early-stage founders who have yet to successfully scale a start-up and most sectors are eligible. Read more about the features of the programme and eligibility criteria

Details of upcoming programmes at ATU Galway-Mayo are available here and details for ATU Sligo-Donegal are available here

Mr. Peter Burke TD, Minister of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment pictured with Fiona Masterson, Ph.D., Founder of The Learning Reservoir Ltd.; John Shorten, Founder of www.Stockright.ie; Ciara Concannon, New Frontiers National Programme Manager and Tony O'Kelly, New Frontier programme manager, ATU Galway-Mayo

New Frontiers Alumnus helps security teams sleep at night

“We started out with the goal of helping security teams get a good night’s sleep. We want to scale that out internationally.”

Matthew Conlon, Cytidel and New Frontiers Programme participant

Matthew Conlon, co-founder of Cytidel and New Frontiers Programme participant at ATU iHUb Mayo, spoke about Cytidel’s mission, growth journey and international expansion plans in an article in the Sunday Business Post. Explaining what Cytidel do, he said: “We monitor what hackers are targeting in real time. We then use that information to help security teams target the top one per cent of risks, the things they actually need to do something about.” To read more please click here.

University Industry Innovation Network (UIIN)

ATU External Engagement Team is excited to announce our collaboration with the University Industry Innovation Network (UIIN), a global leader in university-industry engagement, entrepreneurship, and knowledge transfer.

This collaboration is the cornerstone of our Staff Development Academy for External Engagement, designed to support and empower staff in building meaningful collaborations with external stakeholders across industry, community, and social enterprise sectors.

Our structured three-stage Staff Development Academy—Foundational, Professional, and Advanced is currently under development and aims to guide staff through a progressive learning journey.

The UIIN courses are now open to new and current academic staff, researchers, Principal Investigators (PIs), and professional staff. Whether you're beginning your engagement journey or seeking to lead strategic initiatives, these courses offer targeted support and development opportunities.

Some of the courses available this autumn are:

• Impactful Researchers

• Building Start-Ups at Universities

• Navigating Partnerships

• University Business Collaboration Culture

To explore these course offerings, email externalengagement@atu.ie or visit Training in University-Industry Collaboration

Mark Birrane from WONDR Jellies (a past participant on New Frontiers in Mayo), recently won the West Regional Prize at the National Local Enterprise Awards.

New ATU Email Address for External Engagement

We are excited to announce the launch of a dedicated email address designed to streamline communications relating to external engagement in Research, Enterprise, and Innovation.

This new channel is part of our ongoing efforts to better connect with external partners, collaborators, and stakeholders, as well as to enhance internal processes for addressing related queries.

For any inquiries related to External Engagement, Enterprise and Innovation, please reach out to us at: externalengagement@atu.ie

Why This Matters:

Supporting ATU groups in Research, Innovation and Enterprise Engagement are at the heart of what we do, and we believe that clear, efficient communication plays a crucial role in driving success.

Whether you’re an external partner with questions, a potential collaborator, or a team member looking to connect, this new email address will ensure that your queries are directed to the right team promptly and effectively.

The dedicated inbox will be monitored regularly, ensuring you receive timely and informative responses. Our team is here to support external initiatives, foster new partnerships, and respond to questions around the intersection of innovation and enterprise with ATU.

How It Benefits You:

Faster Response Times: Direct your queries to a dedicated team that understands the specific needs of external engagements.

Streamlined Communication:

Whether it’s a question, request, or collaboration opportunity, using this new email ensures your message reaches the right department without delay.

Support for Innovation: Get the help you need to explore new opportunities, partnerships, or collaborations that drive progress.

We encourage both internal and external stakeholders to utilise this email address for all related inquiries, ensuring that we can continue to foster meaningful, impactful engagements between Enterprise, Innovation, and ATU.

Making it Possible for People to Age at Home with Dignity

ATU joins Interreg Europe

TechSocialcare

On 20-21 May representatives from eight European countries gathered in Prague for the official launch of TechSocialcare, an international initiative aimed at transforming how assistive technologies are integrated into social and health care services. The two-day event brought together policymakers, researchers, service providers, and care innovators to discuss a pressing European challenge: how to support people to live independently at home for as long as possible, while easing the burden on caregivers.

Project leader Vít Janovský explained: “With care systems under pressure, we need to rethink how we deliver support. Technology won’t replace human care, but it can make it more efficient, more responsive, and more dignified–both for those who give and those who receive care.”

By 2050,

28% of the EU population will be aged 65 and

over.

A Europe that cares but needs to adapt

According to Eurostat, people aged 65 and over will make up 28% of the EU population by 2050. At the same time, the European Commission’s Care Strategy estimates that Europe will need 1.6 million additional care workers to meet rising demands. In this context, assistive technologies, from SOS buttons to fall detectors and telehealth tools, offer great promise.

But there’s a catch: most tools are not standardised. Each provider uses different systems, making interoperability expensive and complicated. Many devices are hard to use, poorly integrated, or abandoned altogether.

ATU Advisory Partners

Drs Perry Share and John Pender of the School of Business and Social Sciences are Advisory Partners on the TechSocialcare project. The pair has undertaken extensive research on the possibilities of assistive technologies, from social robotics to virtual reality (VR), in the delivery of future care.

“Digital technologies such as social robots, AI and VR have great potential to supplement and support the work of carers across Europe, but it is crucial that such technologies be developed in ethical, accessible and affordable ways, in partnership with potential users and facilitators of care services. We will be working with the project partners to help them achieve these goals.”

Dr Perry Share, ATU

What will TechSocialcare do?

Techsocialcare will:

• Develop basic functional standards for assistive technologies, such as usability, openness, and interoperability.

• Engage governments, regions, and care providers to ensure these standards are reflected in real policies.

• Promote international exchange of good practices and lessons learned.

• Help relieve overburdened caregivers and make digital tools truly supportive for users.

By working together, partners from Czech Republic, Poland, Latvia, Romania, Italy, Ireland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Greece aim to make smart, effective care a reality in homes as well as in institutions.

Seeing Innovation in Action

During the Prague event, participants visited three care organisations showcasing how assistive technology is already helping people live better lives:

• Smart Care, a service providing 24/7 emergency response, legal counselling, and therapy to help older adults live safely at home.

• TELMED showroom, where visitors explored a complete assistive tech package including the emotional-support robot Robin and practical tools for everyday life.

• Senior Home Chodov, which demonstrated how telemedicine, smart pads, and virtual reality are used both for client care and staff training.

These visits provided a valuable look at real-world implementation, building trust in the potential of these tools.

TechSocialcare is co-funded by the European Union through the Interreg Europe programme. It brings together 12 partner organizations, each contributing to the improvement of a key regional or national policy instrument related to social-health care. To find out more please click here.

Drs John Pender and Perry Share with Robin, the robot.

MakerSpace Update

ATU MakerSpace was not idle over the summer, with the facility located on the Sligo campus, involved in numerous projects. A pioneering initiative that fosters technology and creativity within ATU and beyond, inspiring the next generation of students to embrace STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), ATU MakerSpace has also been extending its remit to work with industry partners.

In May, MakerSpace facilitators were delighted to host a wonderful Pop-Up Fab Lab on ATU Mayo’s Castlebar campus, in conjunction with the Local Enterprise Office (Mayo), Údarás na Gaeltachta and European Digital Innovation Hubs Network’s Data2Sustain.

The aim of the event was to introduce local businesses, makers, producers, and designers to creative digital technologies, which can enhance their products, packaging, and prototypes.

ATU MakerSpace facilitators Stuart Lawn and Hassan Dabbagh spoke to the attendees about digital design, 3D printing, and laser cutting, all tools that have transformed traditional manufacturing. In turn, those in attendance shared their ideas about the wonderful projects they are working on, and some solutions they were seeking.

Other ATU MakerSpace workshops took place throughout the summer, and more recently, the Sligo facility hosted two exciting events. In early August, ATU students participating in Student Inc. took part in a workshop to go through the process of design thinking and prototyping. 90 student entrepreneurs from across 13 locations nationwide take part

in Student Inc., which is Ireland’s flagship student entrepreneurship accelerator.

Higher Education 4.0 Innovation Projects Manager Noel Mulkeen said: “ATU MakerSpace was delighted to showcase its Sligo facility and introduce these students to new ways of using technology when it comes to entrepreneurship. The STEM subjects can be adopted in most if not all fields of study and work and, at ATU MakerSpace, our facilitators love exploring new ideas and finding solutions.”

Meanwhile, in mid-August, ATU MakerSpace collaborated with members from the EU GREEN Alliance to showcase the best of what MakerSpace has to offer when it comes to working creatively within the STEM subjects, including exploring new ways to improve sustainability.

Following an introduction to the facility by Higher Education 4.0 Innovation Projects Manager Noel Mulkeen, the visitors joined facilitator Hassan Dabbagh for a series of workshops over several days.

Higher Education 4.0 Innovation

Projects Manager Noel Mulkeen said: “MakerSpace was delighted to be working with EU Green and helping students from five different countries and various disciplines compete in this important challenge.”

ATU MakerSpace is funded by Higher Education 4.0 under the Human Capital Initiative (HCI) Pillar 3

ATU Makerspace Facilitator, Hassan Dabbagh

ATU Access & Widening Participation Service Connects with Communities

The last academic year (2024-25) was a busy one for the ATU Access & Widening Participation Service as they continue to engage with other education providers and communitybased organisations as part of its delivery under the National Access Plan (NAP).

The service engages with DEIS primary and post-primary schools to support students at risk of educational disadvantage. Amongst the initiatives last year were customised campus visits to ATU. Dr Celia Keenaghan, ATU Participation Officer, said: “Campus familiarisation activities such as visits, information sessions and taster sessions, extends the sense of possibility and range of options available to marginalised groups who might not otherwise consider higher education.”

Yellow Flag Programme

As part of the Yellow Flag Programme, ATU students visited Ballinode College during the school’s Race Awareness Week in March and in May, fifth class pupils, teachers and parents from Scoil Cholmcille, visited our Letterkenny campus to participate in sports, a campus tour and a robotics session. ATU aims to support equality of opportunities in higher education for all children, regardless of race or ethnicity through its campus visits and outreach activities as part of its involvement in the Yellow Flag Programme.

Traveller and Roma community groups at ATU

ATU continues with several initiatives aimed at supporting Traveller and Roma communities into higher education. These include an afterschool programme which is delivered by Donegal Travellers Project in Letterkenny and in Bundoran.

Donegal Travellers Project also brought a group to ATU Sligo campus over the Easter break. Other visits this year included a group from Leitrim Development Company and Foróige’s Roma UBU Youth Project from Roscommon to ATU Sligo campus.

Daniel Mato, Foróige member said: “The experience in ATU Sligo sports facilities was amazing. We toured the engineering block, had lunch and then made a dome with MakerSpace. It was amazing day for us.”

In May, Galway Community College hosted Ireland's first ever Rubik Cube Schools Competition. The inaugural competition was organised by Galway Community College Rubik Cube Club, in partnership with ATU Access & Widening Participation Office, ATU Transcend and Galway City Partnership.

The event saw students of all ages and skill levels come together for a range of competitions, both individual and team challenges. Highlights included a student from Coláiste Bhaile Chláir solving a randomly scrambled cube in just 9 seconds.

Often in schools, students who don’t have English as a first language struggle with many aspects of school engagement and this competition was an initiative to address this issue. One participant said: “When we came back to the school, I didn’t feel invisible to other students anymore.”

Rubix Cube Competition

National Schools Youth Summer Programme

In June, Kinaffe National School brought 36 primary school children living in direct provision centres to our ATU Mayo campus. Feedback from the school was very positive and they were grateful that ATU allowed them access to the facilities in ATU Mayo. They said: “We had the best week and the location was excellent. Most of all we had an opportunity to bring the children to facilities in their new home that they can access and enjoy.”

Youthreach

ATU has well-established links with Youthreach, an education, training, and work programme for early school leavers aged 15-20 years of age. Learners on the programme have visited ATU campuses including Letterkenny and Sligo to experience campus life for a day.

One Youthreach participant said: “I’ve been to ATU once and really enjoyed the experience. At the time, I was confident that I wouldn’t go to ATU Sligo, but the tour of the campus was very impressive. After listening today … I’m considering ATU for a course. I think being physically introduced to ATU was highly beneficial.”

ATU Traveller & Roma Framework

ATU’s new Traveller & Roma Framework was finalised in April 2025. Rory McMorrow, ATU’s Access and Widening Participation Service Manager welcomed the new framework and said: “ATU Traveller & Roma Framework provides for a long-term approach to engagement with Traveller and Roma communities in the region. It provides for effective planning and delivery, and importantly provides an opportunity for the Traveller and Roma communities in the region to shape their involvement in education into the future.”

ATU Students and staff (Access and Widening Participation Office) visited Gavle, Sweden in February as part of an EU GREEN Work Package 7 Sports and Cultural event. This was the first initiative of its kind, where students from across the alliance came together to participate and engage in sports and cultural events.

ATU Discover Musket Balls and Clay Pipes During Fort Excavation

ATU archaeologists Dr Fiona Beglane and Dr Marion Dowd led an excavation of the 17th-century Green Fort at Fort Hill, Co Sligo from 2-20 June, working in partnership with Sligo County Council. Participants in the excavation also included ATU students from the Certificate in Archaeological Excavation and Post-Excavation and the Certificate in Archaeological Field Studies.

The project involved three weeks of excavation and post-excavation work, on-site and in the archaeology laboratory at ATU Sligo. The Green Fort is one of 65 bastioned forts in Ireland and one of seven such sites in Co Sligo. It was a strategic base during the Williamite Wars (16891691), when it formed part of Sligo town’s defences

The archaeological excavation involved opening an excavation trench in the fort interior to investigate how the complex developed through time. More than 1,000 historical artefacts were recorded during the three-week excavation of the fort.

Recorded discoveries included: clay pipes for smoking tobacco, glass, pottery and animal bones. Military artefacts discovered included: musket balls, buttons and part of a mortar bomb. To find out more about the excavation please click here

ATU brings Outdoor Education to Canada

ATU lecturer, Davy Walsh writes about a trip to Canada in May of this year when students studying for a MSc in Outdoor Education, Wellbeing and Sustainability travelled there to deliver a workshop at the annual Learning Outside Conference in Banff, Alberta.

The students’ workshop focused on the healing power of nature through the lens of ancient Celtic Wisdom and was submitted to the conference as part of a Nature Wellbeing module in the students’ first semester. In addition to the conference, and in collaboration with ATU International Office, a visit to Vancouver was also arranged to establish a meaningful partnership between Outdoor Education in ATU Mayo with Outdoor Recreational Management in Capilano University.

Vancouver, British Colombia

Like ATU, Capilano University has several campuses spread out across several territories including LíỈwat, xwməθkwəỷəm (Musqueam), shíshálh (Sechelt), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and SəỈílwəta /Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh). They have about 12,500 enrolled students studying over 100 programmes with the Vancouver campus acting as the flagship campus.

We stayed in their Squamish Campus and thanks to Leah Primeau, in the community engagement office, everything was sorted upon our arrival. The Squamish Campus is located about halfway between Vancouver and Whistler and is a perfect base for exploring the

landscape. The campus looks out on to an amazing mountain vista and like the main campus, all its buildings take their name from local mountains.

With a day or two to spare before students delivered a workshop with Capilano staff, we headed to the mountains to exercise some outdoor education skills (aka hiking).

“The views were breath taking and the vastness of country was hard to fathom. From soaring eagles to huge waterfalls, snow peaks mountains and picturesque lakes all wrapped up in better than average May weather, we couldn’t ask for anything more.”

After a preparation session on Sunday which involved braiding a Crios Bríde out of natural material for the workshop, we met Capilano staff on Monday morning at the Lynn Creek Ecology Centre.

From the Ecology Centre we followed a trail over a high suspension bridge to an open area of ceder forest where our students delivered a workshop in preparation for the Banff Conference. This workshop was very successful, and the students received some great feedback from Capilano staff members.

Capilano University Squamish Campus

Afterwards we undertook a coldwater challenge in a local river which was fed by mountain water. Capilano staff initiated us into the way of Wahmhoff breathing, technique and mindset, before we took the plunge. This was a new experience for us, while we were well used to swimming in cold water the idea of keeping still for more than three minutes was entirely counter intuitive.

During the visit to Capilano, Andrew Stegemann, Chair of the Outdoor Recreation programme at Capilano and I spoke at length of the possible collaborations between our programmes with an initial agreement to set up a Collaborate Online Integrated Learning (C.O.I.L) programme as well as creating

transfer routes between our two programmes. Capilano have several other programmes that match with programmes ran in ATU allowing for further collaboration in the future.

While British Colombia is a truly unique and beautiful place there are parts of Vancouver that exposed human depravity to a level I have never witnessed before. Due to temporary road closure in the city, we had to drive through Vancouver’s Downtown East side which is plagued by a fentanyl and opioid crisis. For a ten-block stretch there were masses of people barely alive, barely able to move, only just surviving. Homeless addicts, unwanted and let down by legislation, put a real dampener on what is otherwise a lovely city that has so much to offer.

Banff, Alberta

After another long day traveling, we arrived in Banff just before sunset with a day to spare before the conference. While British Columbia’s landscape is breathtaking, Alberta is on another level completely. The difference between Calgary, which resides on flatland prairies, to the mountains surrounding Banff only adds to the grandeur of the place. With a day off before the conference began the students convinced me to join them skiing. Unsurprisingly, the views from the Sunshine Mountain were stunning and the skiing conditions were great given how late in the season it was.

Learning Outside Conference

The Learning Outside conference in Banff is an annual conference organised by a nonprofit group called ‘Take me Outside,’ who promote outdoor learning in all aspects of education from young to mature learners. The theme of this year’s conference was ‘Place and Pedagogy,’ with a strong emphasis

Left to right: ATU students, John Mulholland, Jessie Decroos, Debbie Kyne, Davy Walsh (ATU lecturer), Niamh Oliver, Peter Walsh at Capilano University Squamish Campus.

Left to right: Andrew Stegemann, Chair of the Outdoor Recreation programme at Capilano with Davy Walsh, ATU lecturer.

on indigenous knowledge. With over 400 people in attendance the three days passed quickly with a series of keynote speakers in the mornings followed by workshops in the afternoons centred around health and wellbeing, environment and climate, and indigenous ways of knowing.

On Friday afternoon our master students ran their workshop to a maximum capacity group who enjoyed one of most active sessions of the conference. A lot of the workshops centred around demonstrating teaching methods and content with minimal activities, in contrast to the ATU workshop which was a hands-on immersive nature experience.

The workshop explored Celtic tradition and wellbeing using transient art and an Irish ritual known

as the Crios Bríde. Participants were encouraged to explore various stages of life through the ancient Irish festivals of Imbolg, Bealtaine, Lúnasa, and Samhain. The positive feedback the students received was entirely deserved and the workshop was the highlight for many of the conference attendees.

With only an afternoon left we made our way to the summit of Scared Buffalo Mountain where we gave thanks with a tobacco offering (as instructed by an indigenous elder Slyvia Fox form the Blackfoot people), for our time spent in Canada.

Reflecting on the trip it’s clear that the Outdoor Education programmes offered in ATU are setting the standard for innovative outdoor learning that embraces multiple themes and are current, progressive and world class. There was nothing

in the conference, indeed the whole trip, that students hadn’t already came across in their own studies in ATU.

“They [students] were a credit to ATU, having given one of the best workshops of the conference, with passion, enthusiasm and professional integrity.”

Finally, this trip would not have happened if wasn’t for the support of John Joe Farrell in the International Office and Dr Deirdre Garvey, Head of the Environmental Humanities and Social Science Dept in ATU Mayo. To everyone who supported the trip thank you so much, this was really a once in the lifetime trip and as the Canadians would say it was ‘totally awesome’.

Lake Louise, Banff Alberta

Brandywine Fall, British Columbia

Sustainability

Science, Sea,

and Sustainability

EU GREEN Blended Intensive Programme (BiP) Unites Students at ATU

ATU hosted an in-person week of the EU GREEN Blended Intensive Programme (BiP) from 23-27 June bringing together students, researchers, and academic leaders from across Europe for an interdisciplinary exploration of epidemiology, sustainability, and collaborative innovation.

Held at ATU’s Sligo campus, the week-long programme brought together participants from nine universities across the EU GREEN Alliance, exploring the intersections of public health, environmental protection, and economic impact under the theme of “Epidemiology Applications for Health and Sustainability.”

Prof Frances Lucy, Academic Lead for EU GREEN at ATU, said: “EU GREEN is committed to advancing environmental, social, and economic sustainability, especially in Europe’s peripheral regions. The Blended Intensive Programmes (BiP) is an opportunity to bring together students from across Europe to promote sustainability on campus and through external engagement.

“Hosting this programme at ATU strengthens sustainability education and equips students with skills to tackle complex challenges, empowering them to drive positive change in their communities.

This initiative highlights ATU’s role in driving environmental, social, and economic transformation in the region.“

- Prof Frances Lucy

Throughout the week, keynote speakers and academic leaders brought invaluable insights to the interdisciplinary focus on health and sustainability. These included:

Prof Frances Lucy, who delivered an introductory welcome that explained the programme’s placement within the context of sustainability and regional engagement.

Dr Chiara Pittalis (RCSI) highlighted water innovation in low-resource communities, directly linking public health to sustainable development.

Prof Alexis Deschatha and Dr Marc Fadel shared in the Presentation Skills in Epidemiology workshop and group SLR development, led by Dr Jennie Jackson.

I am inspired by the students who participated in each aspect of the week and with consistent interest, curiosity, positivity and collaborative spirit.

“Our Alliance with EU GREEN has provided invaluable opportunities and supports that improve our teaching and learning skills, enhance our engagement with our Alliance partners and share our passion for teaching and research across the network.” - Dr Richéal Burns

Dr Carmel Heaney contributed specialist knowledge on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing) connecting the programme to the UN SDGs.

Dr Ríona Walsh and Dr Jennie Jackson played key roles in the design and delivery of the week’s activities, contributing their expertise in public health and science communication to support the programme.

Reflecting on the experience, Dr Richéal Burns, co-organiser and lecturer at ATU Sligo, said: “There are so many wonderful elements of the BiP experience I could focus on, but ultimately, I am so proud of the work our team has done to provide a very engaging and student-centred BiP.

Dr Jennie Jackson, visiting collaborator from the University of Gavle, who led sessions on systematized reviews and scientific communication emphasised the importance of international exposure for the students:

“During the course, students had the chance to expand their perspective on approaches to sustainability given the wide range of research backgrounds of the participants. Furthermore, students presented to an international audience and worked on conquering nerves, honing their language and scientific presentation skills, and learning to field questions from different disciplines.

These skills will help students tackling future conference presentations and networking opportunities and we were really impressed with how hard the students worked in preparing and delivering their final reports.”

Intercultural Learning and Local Exploration

A major strength of the programme was also its commitment to experiential learning and intercultural exchange. Participants took part in:

• A surfing lesson at Strandhill to experience Ireland’s Wild Atlantic coastline.

• A group trip to Bundoran, including a cliff walk and shared dinner.

• An evening of traditional Irish music and dancing, offering a warm introduction to local culture.

These activities provided context for participants to build international friendships, deepen their understanding of regional culture, and engage meaningfully beyond the classroom.

Student Reflections on the EU GREEN Blended Intensive Programme (BiP)

“What I loved about the BiP was the opportunities for collaboration both inside and outside the classroom. For example, we had a surf lesson together as a team to learn a new activity, which bolstered my confidence and helped build connections for life. It also supported us working together in teams for our group presentations and project work.”

“The focus of this BiP on epidemiology brought together students from diverse backgrounds and helped us understand how this subject connects to sustainability within the EU’s Sustainable Development Goals. There were so many opportunities to engage with other students through group assignments, courses, and workshops. I would recommend it to others.”

“It was a fantastic project, and I really gained so much from participating in the BiP. The lectures were extremely relevant as we learned about public policy, data visualization, and equity in public health. I would highly encourage others to participate in BiPs within the EU GREEN Alliance, as it can serve as transversal knowledge for your future. It also allowed us to connect with new people through group work, presentations, and understanding new ways of learning. I wish to thank all the organisers for the excellent quality of the work, topics, and projects they put together for us.”

Sustainable Learning Futures with the new ATU ESD Academy

ATU Teaching and Learning Centre and the Centre for Sustainability launched the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Academy in April 2025. The initiative aims to integrate sustainability across learning environments.

The ESD Academy, supported by Strategic Alignment of Teaching and Learning Enhancement (SATLE) funding from the Higher Education Authority and the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning, aligns with the National ESD Strategy to 2030. It focuses on key priority areas, including transforming learning environments, building educator capacity, mobilising young people, and accelerating local-level actions. The ESD Academy is built on a 6Cs framework—Curriculum, Campus, Community, Collaborative Research, Culture, and Care— ensuring an action-oriented approach to sustainability, climate action, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Under the ATU ESD Academy, the Teaching and Learning Centre are offering two short online courses for staff and students introducing the SDGs. Both courses lead to an open digital badge. The free online courses are available to all interested ATU stakeholders and members across the EU GREEN Alliance partner universities.

You can access the courses on ATU’s Teaching and Learning online learning platform here

These new courses align with ATU’s strategic objective and guiding light on Education and Research in Sustainability.

United Nations SDGs

Both short courses introduce the United Nation’s SDGs, which are a shared blueprint and urgent call for action by all countries to achieve peace and prosperity for people and the planet. To date, 2,000 students nationally have undertaken the student course as part of the N-TUTORR program of work in 202425. To achieve the badge, participants must complete all of the content and pass a seventeen-question multiplechoice quiz (with a score of at least 80%), which tests their knowledge of the goals and their targets.

"The new short courses available to staff and students offer a fantastic opportunity for ATU, national stakeholders, and our EU GREEN Alliance community to learn about Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). The SDG open access courses for staff and students lay the foundation and will help bring about transformative change in higher education and beyond."

- Dr Carina Ginty, Head of Teaching and Learning (Transformative Education & Sustainable Learning Futures).

Call to action

The SDGs are an urgent call for action by all countries, developed and developing, in a global partnership. They recognise that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.

You can find out more the ATU ESD Academy by clicking here. The ATU ESD Academy leadership team includes Dr Mark Kelly, Dr John Scahill, and Dr Carina Ginty.

ATU Celebrates

Creative Arts and Design Exhibitions 2025

At the end of each academic year students on our Creative Arts and Design programmes showcase their work. Over the next five pages we give you a taste of some of our students’ creative works at our 2025 exhibitions.

ATU Donegal Graduate Fashion Show

The ATU Donegal Graduate Fashion Show lit up the vibrant and unconventional setting of Kinnegar Brewery, Letterkenny, where student designers delivered an unforgettable evening of creativity, innovation, and sustainable style. The show featured the circular designed final collections from the third and fourth-year graduates and standout upcycled looks from our second- year design students.

A full house of guests, fashion enthusiasts, and industry leaders were wowed by the talent on display. The event highlighted the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Donegal’s emerging fashion talent, setting a high bar for future graduates and reinforcing Letterkenny’s place on the creative map.

Alica Barr's design with upcycled bedding fabrics.

Still by Alanna Josso Cooley. Alanna is a graphic design and illustration student at ATU Galway city (Wellpark Road) campus

Bray Zhang models one of his designs from the sponsored Molloy & Sons Donegal Tweed women’s wear and men’s wear collection

Anna Ní Mháirtín’s design with upcycle curtain fabric and resin molded bodice.

Hollie Gallagher's Magee 1866 Donegal tweed in this sculptural look from her collection inspired by personal space.

ATU Graduate Creative Arts and Media Exhibition, Galway City

Hosted by ATU’s School of Design and Creative Arts, Galway city (Wellpark Road) campus, the Creative Arts and Media Exhibition featured the work of 95 emerging artists, and showcased their innovation, talent, and imagination in a broad spectrum of creative disciplines from paintings, sculptures, installations, graphic design and illustration to digital art, film and documentary screenings, animations and video games, product designs and textiles and fashion designs.

Celine Curtin, Head of Dept of Creative Arts and Media, said: “This year’s cohort of final year students demonstrate not only exceptional skill but a bold engagement with the world around them. It is powerful testament to the students’ creativity and resilience and their hard work.”

Grace Laffey and her model from the BA in Design (Textile and Fashion Design).

Colette Murphy from the BA in Contemporary Art pictured with her work.

Alex Keogh from the BA in Animation and Game Design.

Creative Showcase at ATU’s Yeats Academy of Arts, Design and Architecture (YAADA)

YAADA’s annual showcase presented the work of its graduating students in fine art, theatre design, performing arts, writing and literature, interior architecture, creative design, and more. The show launched with a packed opening event on ATU’s Sligo campus, highlighted the depth of talent emerging from the academy, and the growing regional importance of YAADA as a creative hub.

Head of YAADA at ATU, Maša Ruane Bratuša, said: “The Yeats Academy End of Year Showcase 2025 is more than an academic milestone—it’s a cultural event for the region. The graduate work on display reflects both the students’ dedication and ambition, and the ongoing growth of YAADA. More students are choosing to study here each year, supported by skilled staff and access to the latest technology that enables them to produce work of real depth and relevance.”

Creative Design Graduates at the YAADA exhibition at ATU Sligo.

Visual art by Katie Greenan, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Fine Art.

Kerrie Lee Gallinag, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Fine Art.

Roxanne (Rory) Perras, Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art.

Icons 2025 Furniture and Design Exhibition

An exhibition of furniture pieces designed and created by students in the National Centre for Excellence in Furniture Design and Technology at ATU Connemara took place over the summer, from June to August.

The exhibition featured 70 individual furniture pieces designed and made by final year students. The works on show included tables, chairs, clocks, lamps, outdoor seating, cabinets, stools, boxes, marquetry and other bespoke pieces.

Student Liam O’Flaherty pictured with his cabinet. Liam won the Conor Farrell Award for Excellence in Design. Also included in the photo are Paul Farrell from Farrell Furniture Ardee, and Jeremy Madden, ATU lecturer.

The Robin and Lucienne Day Foundation Furniture Prize 2025 was won by student Lucy O’Sullivan, for her Irish grown Oregon maple rocking chair. Pictured with Lucy are Dr Ola Flynn, Paul Leamy and Mary Mullin, Trustee of the Robin and Lucienne Day Foundation. presenting the Foundation

Aidan O’Brien won the Ellis Award for Excellence for his Oak and Connemara marble cabinet.

Courtney Croucamp with her stool made with Irish Elm.

ATU Team’s Success in the International Robothon Grand Challenge

Four PhD researchers from ATU have won first place in the prestigious international robotics competition, the Robothon Grand Challenge 2025, hosted recently by Technical University of Munich (TUM) MIRMI in Germany.

The TU RISE research students Dipshikha Das, Ali Al Abbas, Abdullah Haider Ali and Camillo Murgia, beat off competition from a field of eight international competitors from Germany, Ireland, India and UAE. They built a robot solution that can perceive and react intelligently in different scenarios.

“We tackled five core tasks ranging from vision-guided tasks to tool use and also designed our Bring Your Own Device challenge (BYOD) to demonstrate transferable skills and adaptability. It was an incredible opportunity to apply our skills, research and creativity, and we are proud of how our team came together to deliver a robust, responsive system.”

Team Atlabotics, Winners of the Robothon Grand Challenge 2025

Dr Philip Long, mentor and lecturer, ATU Galway, says: “I’m proud of the team for winning first place at the Robothon Grand Challenge 2025.

They developed an advanced vision-based robotic manipulation system in a very short space of time, a testament to the state-ofthe-art research they’re conducting as part of their PhD programmes. It’s a fantastic achievement on the international stage and a great example of their creativity, technical ability, and teamwork.”

All four are PhD researchers at ATU through the HEA’s TU RISE programme, co-financed by the Government of Ireland and the European Union via the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) under the Southern, Eastern & Midland and Northern & Western Regional Programmes 2021–27.

About Robothon

Robothon Grand Challenge is a prestigious international robotics competition and one of the core pillars of the Munich hi-tech platform at automatica, Europe’s leading robotics and automation trade fair.

The competing teams use a robot platform to autonomously complete manual tasks inspired by real-world industry challenges.

Pictured are the winning team, left to right: Abdulllah Haider Ali, Dipshikha Das, Camillo Murgia, and Ali Al Abbas.

First Place in Global WTUN Student Innovation Competition

Two PhD students from ATU won first place in the prestigious World Technology Universities Network (WTUN) Student Competition 2025. The winning team consisted of researchers from the ATU Galway campus, Chethaka Gamage and Dhanushi Rodrigo, both PhD candidates in Business. The team surpassed 20 global university teams with their groundbreaking project, ATU CropConnect, a platform that helps make farming more sustainable by bringing together older and younger generations and combining traditional knowledge with new technology. ATU CropConnect focuses on rural resilience and intergenerational knowledge transfer in Irish farming communities.

This year’s WTUN Student Competition challenged students to develop innovative, local solutions addressing one or more of the United

Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), under the 2025 theme: “Sustainable Innovation for Planetary Health – Local Solutions for Global Problems.”

“Winning the WTUN Student Competition was such a memorable moment. As someone researching supply chain sustainability learning, this project really brought my interests to life. For me, ATU CropConnect is about more than just technology, it involves connecting people, generations and knowledge. It showed how local wisdom and new tools can come together to build to build sustainable, resilient communities. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my ideas on this global platform and very proud of this win representing ATU and Ireland.”

Dhanushi Rodrigo

“Winning first place in the WTUN Student Competition was an incredible honour and a proud moment for us. It confirmed our belief that meaningful innovation can start from local challenges and be shaped into global solutions. Through ATU CropConnect, we aimed to connect generations, preserve agricultural heritage, and show how AI can serve rural resilience. We’re grateful for the opportunity to represent ATU on an international stage and share our vision for sustainable change.”

Chethaka Gamage

Expressing pride in the student’s win, their academic supervisors, Dr George Onofrei, Dr Gabriela Gliga and Dr Amaya Vega said: “ATU CropConnect, is a powerful example of how innovative thinking can bridge generations and strengthen knowledge transfer in agri-food systems. Their achievement reflects a deep commitment to sustainability and building community resilience through inclusively harnessing emerging technologies such as AI. Competing on a global stage, they have shown how local insights can inspire global solutions. We congratulate the team on this welldeserved win.”

Left to right: Chethaka Gamage, Dr Ciarán Ó hAnnracháin (Chair Operational Board for the WTUN), and Dhanushi Rodrigo.

Engineering Students Win National Merit Award

A team of final-year Mechanical Engineering students from ATU has been honoured with a Merit Award at the 2025 Enterprise Ireland Student Entrepreneur Awards for their sports coaching innovation, TactiCast.

The award-winning team—Alex Markey, Arunas Pakalniskis, and Akeb Saleem—developed TactiCast as part of their final-year Innovation and Enterprise module.

The project is a modern solution for sports coaches, replacing traditional tactics boards with a mobile app and battery-powered projector that allows real-time strategy sharing on the pitch or in the dressing room.

David Keary, lecturer at ATU said: “The students' hard work, creativity, and dedication truly shone through. Over the past 12 weeks, they have taken their idea from a sketch to a potential startup. It is a milestone for our department—this is the first time since 2016 that one of our Engineering Teams has reached the final ten of this national competition.”

The students received a €1,500 prize and presented their prototype during a two-day event hosted at Technological University Dublin. Now in its 44th year, the Student Entrepreneur Awards is one of Ireland’s longest running and most respected platforms for student innovation

"Being selected in the Top 10 of the Enterprise Ireland Student Entrepreneur Awards 2025 and receiving a Merit Award was an incredible honour. Showcasing TactiCast, our innovative sports coaching app developed through ATU’s Mechanical Engineering course, at the event in TU Dublin was a truly rewarding experience.

It was a great opportunity to present our work, gain valuable feedback, and engage with other passionate student entrepreneurs and industry leading experts."

Alex Markey, ATU student and Team Lead of TactiCastt

Congratulating the team, Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President said: “I want to congratulate Team TactiCast from ATU Engineering on reaching the top ten in Ireland for their innovative sports coaching app. The national Enterprise Ireland Student Entrepreneur awards, held annually, are extremely competitive and it’s wonderful to see one of our teams reach the finals. Well done to Alex, Arunas, and Akeb, and also to Dave Keary and all the ATU staff who supported them in their enterprise journey. Ireland needs graduates with strong entrepreneurial skills, and I’m delighted to see ATU’s progression in this regard. “

"Huge congratulations go to team TactiCast on reaching the national final of the Enterprise Ireland awards. They represented ATU so well in this very competitive competition. The entrepreneurial spirit and mindset demonstrated by these students is exactly what we are working towards every day in ATU, we recognise the value of this to the students, to our region and the economy. Through the development of our entrepreneurial ecosystem within the University, we hope that the success of these students will inspire others to grasp these opportunities.”

Eve-Anne Mc Carron, External Engagement Manager, ATU

The overall winner of the 2025 competition was Saor Water, a student-led company producing bespoke canned water. The event featured ten finalist teams tackling a range of global challenges, with TactiCast one to watch out for in the future for its practical application and commercial potential.

Left to right: ATU Mechanical Engineering Students Arunas Pakalniskis, Akeb Saleem, and Alex Markey demonstrating their TactiCast product at the Enterprise Ireland Student awards.

Student’s Short Film Goes Global

A short documentary film “Echoes of an Irish Lifetime (2025)” by ATU student Frances Maguire scooped nine international film awards and screened at six international film festivals around the world from Chile and Australia to the US and France this summer.

The film focuses on the reminiscences of 94-year-old Owney McGoldrick about his life farming in the northwest of Ireland. Music is by Purple Planet. Frances made the film under the guidance of ATU lecturer Matt McDonagh during the third year of her studies on the Bachelor of Arts in Film and Media Production in ATU Donegal.

Speaking about her work, Frances says: “My passion for creative storytelling led me to write this short film. The experience has deepened my love for filmmaking and reinforced my commitment to a future in the industry. My goal is to further hone my craft and expand my knowledge by engaging directly with those who have established careers in this field. I’m eager to contribute creatively while gaining valuable insights that will help me grow as a filmmaker. I look forward to building relationships within the industry and am enthusiastic about the possibility of working alongside talented individuals who share my passion for storytelling and cinematic expression.”

Debut Novel by ATU Graduate

Oneworld Publications recently published Sugarland by Caragh Maxwell. The novel tells the story of a young Irishwoman’s chaotic return home from London. Anne Enright has praised its “rawness, candour and humour,” while Elaine Feeney has described it as a “very real and penetrating account of modern Ireland”.

Caragh grew up in Mullingar and moved to Sligo in her early twenties to pursue the undergraduate Writing and Literature programme at ATU Sligo. Reflecting on her road to success, Caragh said: “I didn’t think it was going to happen for a while. I got something like 42 rejections. But I think it was good for me, thinking it wasn’t going to happen and having to pick myself up and get on with things.”

Fans of Sally Rooney, Megan Nolan and Niamh Mulvey will love this engrossing debut novel about returning home to your mother when life has gone south.

New Books by ATU Staff: Past and Present

The Irish Pub Invention and Re-Invention

Edited by Moonyoung Hong and ATU staff member, Perry Share, this comprehensive study offers a unique exploration of Irish pubs’ cultural impact, evolution, and future. It’s a must-read for all history and culture enthusiasts.

In addition to Perry, contributors to the book include ATU lecturer, Dr Gwen Scarbrough, former ATU Mayo lecturer, Kevin Martin and ATU PhD student, Jim McCauley.

Drs Hong and Share recently spoke about Irish pubs and how an increase of pub closures will affect Irish culture, on the popular Polish podcast: Dział Zagraniczny

The Curraghs and Naomhóga of Ireland

Mayo Books Press recently published ‘The Curraghs and Naomhóga of Ireland’ by Dr Breandán Mac Conamhna.

Eighty-nine-year-old Breandán served as Principal of the Regional Technical College Sligo in 1980, and later as Director of the Institute of Technology, Sligo, (now ATU Sligo). He retired in 2001, and this is his fourth book to be published since then.

‘The Curraghs and Naomhóga of Ireland’ tells the story of the curragh from pre-history up to the present day. The book was first published as Curaigh na hÉireann, by Cló Iar Chonnachta, 2016, and this English language edition is a very welcome addition to the corpus of books on Ireland's unique maritime heritage.

Prime the Pump: Catholicism, Arts Policy and the Post-war Irish Amateur Drama Movement 1949 to 1969

Dr Ian G. Kennedy, ATU Library staff member’s new book was published by Peter Lang in June.

Exploring the cultural network interface between arts policy development, Catholicism and post-war Irish amateur drama, this book analyses a cross-section of plays performed at the All-Ireland, Western, Clare, North Cork and other Irish drama festivals between 1953 and 1969. It argues that the amateur drama movement challenged traditional aspects of Irish social, political and theological life by highlighting social issues including emigration, poverty, housing, and the treatment of vulnerable women and children; matters of national importance that continue to impact contemporary Irish society.

Legends of Mayo Ladies Football Honoured in Croke Park

At this year’s All-Ireland Ladies Football final (3 August), between Dublin and Meath, the Mayo ladies football team who won the Ladies All-Ireland final in 1999 and 2000 were presented with medals from the LGFA in recognition of their achievements.

Amongst those honoured was Maria Staunton, who is the Innovation Hub Mayo Manager at ATU.

In 1999 the team made history as it was the first time the Mayo ladies won an All-Ireland senior title. There were 10 teenagers on the team in 1999, and they beat Waterford by four points. Maria was just 19 years of age.

Maria was made captain the following year. Reflecting on their success she said: “We were out to prove we were not a flash in the pan, so back-to-back All-Ireland wins were important for us. That year we won on a scoreline of 3-6 (Mayo) to 0-14 (Waterford).”

Staff and students from the Department of Early Education and Social Studies and the Department of Nursing & Health Care based in the Letterkenny campus hosted a Teddy Bear Hospital on campus on 26-27 May. Children from a local primary school, were invited to participate in this initiative, which aimed to ease the fears children often associate with hospital and dental visits.

Recognising that admission to hospital can be a traumatic and unprepared experience for many children, the event offered a playful and safe introduction to healthcare environments. The children and their teddy bears visited the University’s specialised skills-training facilities, including an early year’s playroom, a hospital ward simulation suite, and a dental laboratory.

During their visit ATU nursing students encouraged them to care for their Teddy bears using medical equipment such as monitoring devices, oxygen masks, bandages, and pretend medications. They also visited the dental skills lab to explore dental chairs and instruments. A local ambulance was stationed onsite, with personnel from the National Ambulance Service on hand to introduce the children to emergency equipment.

Before leaving, Teddy attended the Recovery Room where storytelling and puppet shows were facilitated by Early Childhood and Inclusive Practice students. Finally, Teddy received a “prescription” for continued good health, which included cuddles, outdoor play, and nutritious meals.

This project was funded by Teaching and Learning Centre Innovation Fellowship Awards 2025 and was led by Dr Karen Patton and Dr Gail Cummins (Dept. of Early Education and Social Studies) and Ms Mary Dunnion (Dept of Nursing and Health Care).

Teddy Bear Hospital 2025

33 ATU Staff Recognised for Teaching and Learning Achievements

A sense of pride and accomplishment filled the air at ATU Sligo on 4 June, as 33 staff members from across the University were honoured at a special Recognition of Achievement event for attaining Advance HE Fellowships. These prestigious awards–three Associate Fellows, nine Fellows, 19 Senior Fellows, and two Principal Fellows–reflect ATU’s deep commitment to excellence in teaching and supporting student learning.

The celebratory occasion took on even greater significance as ATU marked its milestone as the first university in Ireland to be designated an Advance HE Accredited Institution. Through the ENGAGE Fellowship Programme, ATU now has the authority to assess and award Fellowships internally–a groundbreaking development in Irish higher education.

Special guest Kate Weedy, Head of Partnerships (Europe) at Advance HE, commended ATU for its significant contribution to professional development and teaching excellence.

She noted that ATU’s accreditation and leadership through the ENGAGE Programme serves as a model for institutions across Europe aiming to strengthen their academic teaching communities.

In her address, at the event, Dr Niamh Plunkett, Head of Teaching & Learning and Strategic Lead for Fellowships at ATU said: “In less than three years, ENGAGE has grown from a small pilot to a cornerstone of our academic development offering. We now have 78 accredited Fellows across all four categories and over 60 more colleagues either awaiting outcomes or actively engaged in new cohorts. The response has been phenomenal and speaks to a culture at ATU that values reflection, inclusivity, and excellence in teaching.”

“This achievement is not just about individual recognition but about embedding a culture where outstanding teaching and student support is acknowledged and celebrated. The ENGAGE Programme aligns strongly with our university’s strategic priority to enable education for all.”

Dr

Orla Flynn, ATU President

Heads of Department and Faculty members from across the University were also in attendance, proudly celebrating the accomplishments of their colleagues. Their presence underscored the collective pride and institutional backing for those who strive to deliver the highest standards in teaching, learning, and academic support.

Special thanks were extended to the mentors, reviewers, and Teaching and Learning team at ATU Sligo who helped make this event and the wider ENGAGE initiative, such a success. Appreciation was also given to those who supported the celebration on the day, including Kerry and the music ensemble, the catering team, and Studio Rove for capturing the occasion on film.

News in Brief

ATU joins €4 million all-island arts and design research network

Taoiseach Micheál Martin, TD and James Lawless, Minister for Further Education,Research and Science have announced the allocation of €16 million in funding for four major cross-border research collaborations between higher education institutions in Ireland and Northern Ireland.

ATU is a partner in one of the selected projects called CO-CREATE This project is a major new €4 million cross-border research collaboration that will use art and design to drive societal transformation across the island of Ireland.

ATU and Ulster University continue to collaborate and innovate

ATU and Ulster University (UU) have launched an innovative, cross-border mobility initiative to drive student and staff exchanges between the two universities. The initiative was developed through the ATU – UU Strategic Partnership Steering Group to facilitate closer cross-border collaboration between ATU and UU. The scheme is open to all staff, academic and professional, in both ATU and UU and will include intercampus staff visits, student field trips, shared use of facilities and collaborative projects.

Electronic Engineering Student Conor Cleary, winner of the Overall ATU Student Entrepreneur Awards, and shortlisted in the Top 50 of the Enterprise Ireland Awards.

Embedding Entrepreneurship, Creativity and Innovation in Higher Education

ATU has been awarded a flagship European project titled, TRI-CREATES which is funded under Strand A of the EIT Higher Education Initiative. Led by ATU, TRI-CREATES brings together a network of higher education institutions from Ireland, Portugal, Romania, and Turkey, each committed to shaping the future of education through creative innovation.

TRI-CREATES focuses on creativity and user-led innovation that integrates creativity and cutting-edge digital technologies, such as virtual reality, digital design, and gaming, into entrepreneurship education. The project is focused on addressing regional strengths and enabling higher education institutions to lead in innovation and collaboration.

ATU partners in Ulster led €6.7m PEACEPLUS digital transformation initiative

The major new cross-border initiative led by Ulster University and funded through the PEACEPLUS programme will deliver bespoke, fully-funded digital transformation support to SMEs in Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland, helping businesses overcome key challenges such as limited technical expertise, infrastructure constraints, and evolving workforce needs.

It will focus on enhancing competitiveness, building resilience, and fostering innovation. ATU will work closely with Ulster University, Sustainable NI, Manufacturing NI and Innovate NI to deliver tailored supports that enable SMEs to adopt and embed advanced digital technologies towards enhancing their sustainability.

Volunteering in Uganda

For the third year running, students and staff from ATU St Angela’s campus travelled to Uganda to work in humanitarian and community engagement projects in the Entebbe region. The two-week programme visited schools including Noah’s Ark Disability School and Ebenezer Primary School and Nursery where health assessments were delivered to prioritised children at risk, particularly at Noah’s Ark who receive no government funding and are reliant on donors and visiting groups such as ATU.

New sustainable transport eHub opens in Letterkenny

Donegal County Council, ATU, Trinity College Dublin (TCD), ESB, and Enterprise Car Club recently launched a new sustainable transport initiative, the ROBUST eMobility Hub in Letterkenny. The eHub includes two shared electric vehicles (EVs), one e-cargo bike and four e-bikes which are available to book by the public for an hour or the day. Funded by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) under the SEAI Research, Development & Demonstration Funding Programme, the academic lead partner is Trinity College Dublin supported by ATU academics in the Galway and Sligo campuses.

All these stories and more can be found on our ATU website.

ATU Podcasts

Using drones to identify Sperm Whales

ATU PhD student, Seán O’Callaghan has pioneered a new technique to identify individual sperm whales using aerial photographs—a global first for cetacean research. His research uses drone imagery to complement traditional photo-ID methods, offering a new tool for conservationists.

Seán's work, in collaboration with researchers and whale watching operators across the Northeast Atlantic, sheds new light on this elusive species. In this episode Sean speaks with Regina Daly on his research. Please click here to listen.

Altitude Charter: What It Means for Us - A Student Conversation at

ATU

The Altitude Charter is a national framework which aims to embed Universal Design (UD) principles across tertiary education, ensuring that teaching, learning, and institutional practices are inclusive of all learners. It places student diversity and their needs at the heart of educational design and delivery

Join ATU students Serena and Rihanna along with ATU lecturer Maureen Haran as they explore the Altitude Charter, what it means, who it affects, and why students are key to its success. You can listen to this podcast by clicking here.

How is digital innovation reshaping the way we work remotely?

Dr Valerie McTaggart and Neil Farren, a PhD student on the IDEAS programme, explore how remote working is transforming not only how we work but also how and where we live, on the RISE@ATU: IDEAS Podcast.

Whether you're a remote worker, researcher, or just curious about the future of work, this episode is one you won’t want to miss! Please click here to listen.

New Head of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery

ATU officially announced Professor Patrick Pollock as its newly appointed Head of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery at the National Ploughing Championships. A new five-year Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery (BVMS) programme is set to welcome its first students in September

2026 and will be based at ATU’s Letterkenny campus, with one semester delivered at Mountbellew. The programme is supported by significant investment in veterinary teaching and clinical facilities and will initially offer 40 places. Applications open via the CAO on 5 November 2025 under the CAO code: AU375.

ATU at the 2025 National Ploughing Championships

Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President with MEP Maria Walsh at the announcement of ATU's appointment of Prof Patrick Pollock (standing on far left) as new Head of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery at ATU, with Dr Edna Curley, Head of Mountbellew Agricultural College, ATU and Dr Billy Bennett ATU Registrar and Chief Academic Officer.

ATU Donegal Letterkenny

ATU Sligo

ATU Donegal Killybegs

ATU Mayo

ATU Connemara

ATU Mountbellew

ATU Galway City

ATU St Angelas