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SciFest

Scifest Ireland

SciFest is Ireland’s largest second-level STEM programme, designed to encourage students to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through hands-on investigation and research. Since its establishment in 2006, the programme has provided thousands of students across Ireland with opportunities to develop scientific ideas, present projects and engage with the wider STEM community.

Each year, students from secondary schools across the country participate in SciFest fairs, where they investigate a scientific or technological question of their own choosing and present their findings to judges and peers. The programme aims to nurture curiosity, creativity and problem-solving skills while making STEM education accessible to students of all backgrounds.

The Purpose of SciFest

The primary goal of SciFest is to promote STEM education by providing a forum where students can present and display their scientific investigations at local, regional and national levels.

Through participation in SciFest, students gain valuable experience in research, critical thinking, communication and project presentation. These skills are essential not only for scientific careers but also for a wide range of modern professions where analytical thinking and innovation are highly valued.

A key feature of the programme is its commitment to accessibility and inclusion. SciFest is free to enter and aims to ensure that all second-level students have the opportunity to participate, regardless of their background or circumstances.

The Four Levels of the SciFest Programme

SciFest operates through a structured programme consisting of four levels, allowing students to progress from school-based fairs to national and international competitions.

1. SciFest@School – Local Level

At the local level, schools can host their own SciFest STEM fair. Students present their projects within their school community and receive feedback from judges. Schools are supported with resources such as a SciFest toolkit, judging guidance and certificates for participants.

2. SciFest@College – Regional Level

Successful projects can progress to regional fairs hosted in third-level institutions around Ireland. These events allow students to present their work in a university environment while attending science demonstrations, talks and career sessions related to STEM fields.

3. SciFest National Final

Top projects from the regional fairs are invited to compete at the SciFest National Final. At this stage, projects are evaluated by expert judges from academia, industry and government. Participants receive recognition for their achievements and compete for prestigious awards.

4. SciFest International

Winners from the National Final may represent Ireland at major international science events. These include the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in the United States and other international science festivals, giving students the opportunity to showcase their work on a global stage.

Impact and Growth

Since its launch in 2006, SciFest has grown significantly. What began as a single event involving just over 170 students has expanded into a nationwide programme with thousands of participants taking part in STEM fairs each year across Ireland.

Over the years, more than one hundred thousand students have engaged with the programme, exploring topics ranging from environmental science and engineering to technology and health sciences.

The programme continues to evolve and celebrate student innovation, curiosity and problem-solving across Irish schools.

Why SciFest Matters

SciFest plays a vital role in supporting STEM education in Ireland. By encouraging students to ask questions, conduct investigations and communicate their findings, the programme helps develop the skills needed to address global challenges in areas such as energy, health and sustainability.

More importantly, SciFest empowers young people to see themselves as future scientists, engineers and innovators. Through collaboration with teachers, researchers and industry professionals, students gain insight into the opportunities available in STEM fields and are inspired to pursue further study and careers in these areas.

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