Midlands Science celebrates 25 years with Westmeath event

Midlands Science has marked its 25th anniversary with a special event held in Westmeath.

The not for profit company, which delivers its work across Westmeath, Offaly, Laois and Longford, said that it was celebrating the 'milestone' having reached more than

168,000 people and helped make science more accessible, inclusive and relevant to everyday life'.

The occasion was celebrated at the National Science Park in Mullingar, bringing together supporters, partners and members of the scientific community to reflect on the organisation's impact.

In a press release issued on behalf of the company, it said: “For a quarter of a century, Midlands Science has created opportunities for people of all ages to develop curiosity, confidence and understanding of science. Through festivals, public events, school programmes and community initiatives, the organisation has brought internationally renowned figures to the region, including Dr Mary Guinan, who played a leading role in the eradication of smallpox, and Leena Gade, the first female engineer to lead a team to victory at the prestigious Le Mans 24 hours race.”

It added that Midlands Science has been a pioneer in inclusive science engagement, leading developments in accessibility practices, such as sensory-friendly events, and the use of 'plain English' to ensure science is open and accessible to all.

Midlands Science said that it has also shared its practice with others including at EU level through a series of research papers shared at EUSEA, Europe’s leading platform for science communications. It has received awards for its work from the Naughton Foundation, the Social Innovation Fund of Ireland, local authorities, and others.

In 2022, its CEO Jackie Gorman received the Science Foundation Ireland Award for Outstanding Contribution to Science Communications in Ireland.

Speaking at the event, Jackie Gorman highlighted the growing importance of science communication in modern society.

“When we started this work 25 years ago, the focus was rightly on encouraging young people to engage with science and helping to make science more accessible and inclusive,” she said.

“Today, while that remains vital, the role of science communications has become even more important in a way we could not have fully anticipated. The rise of misinformation and disinformation is having profound implications for society, influencing everything from climate action and public health to trust in institutions. Science communications are no longer simply about education; it is about helping people navigate an increasingly complex world and ensuring that evidence, critical thinking and informed decision-making remains part of public life. Science is not separate from society or culture. It shapes our lives every day and helping people engage with it confidently has never been more important,” added Ms Gorman.

The event included a wide-ranging interview with Dr Mike Ryan, who is known globally for his work with the World Health Organisation. He reflected on his work responding to a range of global health emergencies including Covid 19. Dr Ryan reflected on the importance of public trust, evidence-based decision-making and effective communications about science in addressing the challenges facing society today.

He was interviewed by Midlands Science chairperson, Dr Craig Slattery, who is from Offaly and based in the Conway Institute, UCD, where he is engaged in a range of science communications and research projects at national level.

The event also showcased the next generation of scientific talent emerging from the region. Attendees heard from researcher Kate Duffy (from Athlone). She had taken part in a wide range of Midlands Science activities over the years and now her groundbreaking PhD research into cancer is contributing to advances in our understanding of the disease.

A number of students interested in further studies and careers in science attended the event from Loreto College, Mullingar and had the chance to have some discussion with Dr Ryan, who encouraged them to consider the positive impact they can make in the world through science.