SCIFEST EZINE
SciFest: Celebrating 20 Years of Curiosity, Creativity and Inclusion
The launch of SciFest 2026, marking the 20th Anniversary of the programme, took place with a special photoshoot in the Botanic Gardens on 3 February. The event was not only a launch of the year ahead, but a celebration of everything SciFest has achieved over the past two decades, from its early beginnings to becoming Ireland’s largest second-level STEM fair programme, inspiring tens of thousands of students across the country.
Over the past 20 years, SciFest has championed curiosity, nurtured creativity, and promoted inclusion, ensuring that all students, regardless of background, circumstance, gender or ability, have the opportunity to engage with STEM, develop critical thinking skills and explore solutions to real-world challenges
A special thanks to the students from Belmayne ETSS and their teacher Emma Burrowes for their enthusiasm and participation on the day. Sincere appreciation also to Sarah Sexton (Intel), Órlaith Diamond (EirGrid), Paul O’Neil (Keenova) and Alan Pearson (Keenova), whose presence highlighted the strong and enduring support of SciFest’s valued partners.
The launch served as a fitting tribute to 20 years of impact and a strong foundation for the future, as SciFest continues to empower the next generation of innovators and problemsolvers.
2026 will be a year of celebration throughout the programme and an exciting year ahead. I would encourage every second-level student with an idea, an interest, or even just a question they want to explore, to enter SciFest. We cannot wait to see the innovation, imagination and impact of this year ’ s projects. ”
Since 2006, SciFest has grown into a nationwide programme, with 16,000 students taking part in 2025 across 160+ local, regional and national fairs. In total more than 130,000 students have participated in the programme since 2006.
As we mark this special milestone, we invite you to visit the site, explore the new look, and see all the exciting updates Please take a few moments to have a look We’d love to hear what you think! Checkout our new website! www.scifest.ie
To celebrate our 20th year, SciFest has launched a brand-new website!
Preparing for the World Stage
Three SciFest Projects to Compete at Regeneron ISEF 2026 in Phoenix
Good luck to Zack, Ronan and Addison as they represent Ireland on the world stage
