Thousands of enthusiasts flocked to the University of Galway campus as the 28th annual Galway Science and Technology Festival kicked off last Sunday with a full day of discovery, fun, and hands-on learning celebrating the wonder of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

A massive 15,000 attendees from across Galway, Roscommon, Mayo and Clare visited the college campus for a range of activities including 25 live shows and workshops plus over 100 interactive stands from local, national, and multinational organisations.

Exhibits included the newly-designed Medtronic Experience, the Medtronic Mystery Experience and the University of Galway’s ‘Explore the Wonders of Science’ exhibition.

Renowned Zoologist Dr Michel Dugon, founder of the Venom Lab at the University of Galway and creator of the Bug Doctor series, received the Galway Science Person of the Year Award.

Recognised for his over 14 years of inspiring children at the Festival and students across Galway and beyond with his live workshops on bugs, spiders, and snakes and important ongoing scientific research at the University of Galway.

A long-standing favourite among school groups and families, making science accessible, engaging, and exciting.

Speaking at the Festival, Senior R&D Director with Medtronic, Ronan Rogers, compared his firm with the ethos of the event itself.

“At Medtronic, our story is one of continuous innovation,” he said.

“From developing the world’s first leadless pacemaker, to today’s breakthroughs in robotics and minimally invasive therapies, and exploring how artificial intelligence will help predict and personalise patient care – science never stands still.

“The Galway Science and Technology Festival remind us that every breakthrough starts with curiosity, and the next one could come from right here in Galway,” he added.

Professor Becky Whay, Deputy President and Registrar, University of Galway, said they were proud, as lead academic partner, to support and host the Galway Science and Technology Festival on campus.

“This collaboration reflects our commitment to inspiring curiosity and innovation in STEM and showing how these fields connect to real-world impact,” she said.

“Congratulations to our colleague Dr Michel Dugon on being named Science Person of the Year, a fitting recognition of his passion for engaging and inspiring others through science,” she added.

The exhibition once again underscored the importance of STEM learning and curiosity about the world around us, encouraging young people to explore future careers in science and technology. It also provided an opportunity for families to engage directly with scientists, engineers, and innovators.

Pictured: Blue, the Jurassic Park Experience dinosaur, chasing science fans at the Galway Science and Technology Festival at the University of Galway. Photo: Andrew Downes.