'Remarkable vision' Longford school completes pioneering University Level 6 STEM programme

Students from Meán Scoil Mhuire have made regional history by becoming the first in the Midlands to graduate with a University Level 6 Module Certificate in 21st Century STEM Skills from Technological University of the Shannon (TUS).

The graduation ceremony took place at the Midlands Showcase on 3 December at TUS, where the school's Transition Year students received their certificates in front of an audience of businesses, educators, and regional innovators.

The STEM Passport for Inclusion Programme represents a significant step towards educational equity in the region.

Built on the success of similar work with Maynooth University in Longford, the programme was adapted and delivered by TUS after their lecturers shadowed the original Maynooth team.

Meán Scoil Mhuire volunteered to be the pilot post-primary school for this Midlands expansion.

The qualification now carries substantial weight for students' futures. TUS has recently secured accreditation to offer a DEIS STEM pathway, awarding 50 Leaving Certificate CAO points to programme graduates.

This creates a direct route into third-level education and STEM qualifications for students regardless of their backgrounds.

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh said, "These young people have shown remarkable determination and vision. By completing this demanding university-level programme whilst still in secondary school, they've proven that talent exists everywhere – it simply needs the right opportunities to flourish. This graduation marks the beginning of our ambition to position the Midlands as Ireland's premier region for ICT education and digital innovation."

Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon said, "Education transforms lives, and this programme demonstrates what becomes possible when local government, universities, and schools work in genuine partnership. We're committed to extending the STEM Passport for Inclusion across all Midland counties. Every student who gains these skills and qualifications strengthens not just their own future, but the economic and social fabric of our entire region."

The programme's expansion is supported by collaboration between Longford County Council, the STEM Passport for Inclusion team at Maynooth University, TUS, and the Midlands ICT Network. TUS joins MTU Kerry and Maynooth University in delivering this pathway, ensuring students from underrepresented groups gain increased access to STEM careers.

A panel discussion at the Midlands Showcase, titled "How STEM in the Midlands is Redefining Ireland's Digital Horizon", featured Christine Collins (Broadband & Digital Officer, Longford County Council), Sabahat Khan (Assistant Chief Executive/CIO, LGMA), Elizabeth Clinton (INFUSE Team Lead, Ericsson), and Shannon Boyle (Teacher, St. Mary's Primary School, Edgeworthstown). The discussion was hosted by Gráinne Seoige.

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