Gas Networks Ireland and Junior Achievement Ireland have relaunched the 'Energize' STEM education programme with new classroom content aimed at deepening pupils' understanding of energy and sustainability.

Timed to coincide with Science Week, the refresh builds on a partnership that has brought the programme to students nationwide since 2018, encouraging continued study of science at second level and showcasing diverse STEM career paths.

The updated materials cover a range of energy sources, placing particular emphasis on renewable gas and on how Gas Networks Ireland is transforming the national gas network for a cleaner, more sustainable future.

-- Advertisement --

Sixth class pupils from Our Lady of Lourdes National School in Ballinlough were among the first to experience the new modules during a visit to Gas Networks Ireland's Cork headquarters. The class toured the real-time grid control centre and main stores before taking part in an interactive workshop on how organic waste can be converted into energy, and built model windmills to explore renewables infrastructure.

Grainne O'Reilly, Social Sustainability Manager at Gas Networks Ireland, said: "We were excited to introduce the new and refreshed concepts within the Energize Programme to sixth class students from Our Lady of Lourdes National School at our Cork office. Through these updates to the 'Energize' programme, students will gain valuable insights into sustainability, the circular economy, and natural processes. Educating and inspiring our future workforce is something we are passionate about at Gas Networks Ireland. As we move towards a cleaner energy future for Ireland, our younger generations will play a vital role in shaping it."

Gas Networks Ireland is an ambassador for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications' SDG Ireland Champions Programme. 'Energize' supports progress towards Quality Education and Climate Action.