A brand-new STEM Lab and Makerspace has been opened by Mulroy College in Milford. 

The provision of the state-of-the-art facility, designed to inspire creativity, innovation, and hands-on learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), was made possible through the generous support of Mowi Ireland.

The school also launched a brand new website, https://mulroycollege.ie/, at the opening event today.

The development of the STEM Lab and Makerspace project was led by Deputy Principal David McHale, and the school ICT team and ICT Coordinator Maria Ryan.

David McHale, Deputy Principal and Catherine McManus, Operations Director at MOWI Ireland at the opening of a brand-new STEM Lab and Makerspace has been opened by Mulroy College in Milford.

Housed in an existing classroom in the Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB) school, it is fully equipped with cutting-edge technology and resources.

These include 3D printers and laser cutters, Sphero robotics kits and programmable electronics, Lego Spike Prime kits, electronics workstations for circuitry and coding, a vacuum former and vinyl cutter, and dedicated spaces for collaborative, project-based learning.

These tools will empower students to engage in the full design cycle, ideation, prototyping, testing, and iteration, bridging theoretical STEM education with practical application.

Mowi Ireland Operations Director Catherine McManus cuts the tape at Friday’s event.

Officially opening the facility, Catherine McManus, Operations Director at MOWI Ireland, commented, “We are delighted to partner with Mulroy College on this exciting project. 

“At MOWI, we believe that investing in young people and their education is one of the most powerful ways to support our communities. We are proud to play a role in inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and problem-solvers.”

Senior prefects, Steven Sheridan, Gemma McGonigle, Maeve McClean and Pieter Van Ruiven with Trudy Ni Domhaill, BOM Chairperson and Fiona Temple, principal at the opening of a brand-new STEM Lab and Makerspace at Mulroy College.

MOWI, the world’s largest supplier of farm-raised salmon and the most sustainable protein producer, has played a vital role, not just through funding, but through ongoing engagement by providing expertise, mentoring, and real-world project opportunities for students.

With operations centred in County Donegal and beyond, Mowi Ireland is committed to sustainable practices, environmental responsibility, and investment in local communities. Sponsorship of educational initiatives like the Mulroy College STEM Lab and Makerspace demonstrates their belief in empowering youth through learning and innovation.

Pupils from Kilmacrennan NS who attended the opening of the new facilities at Mulroy College.

Speaking at the launch, Mulroy College Principal, Fiona Temple, said, “This facility is another exciting opportunity for our students and complements our already strong STEM offering within the school. 

“We’re giving young people the tools, expertise, and confidence to become creators, inventors, and leaders in STEM. We are proud of what has been achieved, and excited about the opportunities ahead.

“This facility would not have been possible without the generous support of Mowi Ireland. I would like to thank Catherine McManus and Maurice Kelly for their unwavering commitment to this project from the beginning. It will allow our students to continue to flourish in the STEM arena under the guidance of their dedicated teachers.”

Guests at Friday’s opening of the new STEM Lab and Makerspace including, seated, Amanda Quinn, Deputy Principal, Catherine McManus, Operations Director at MOWI Ireland, David McHale, Deputy Principal, Maurice Kelly, HR Manager and Fiona Temple, principal. Photo: Clive Wasson

Ms Temple highlighted how the College looks forward to seeing students thrive in this space, building skills that will open doors to further and higher education, apprenticeships, and rewarding careers in emerging fields.

Donegal ETB Director of Schools, Dr Martin Gormley, said, “The opening of the STEM Lab at Mulroy College is a very exciting development for both the school and the wider community. This state-of-the-art facility will inspire creativity, problem-solving, and innovation, equipping our young people with the skills they need for the future world of work. 

“I would like to commend the principal, staff, and students of Mulroy College as well as Mowi Ireland for their enthusiasm and vision in bringing this project to life.”

Mulroy College invites prospective students and parents, local businesses, educational stakeholders, and the wider community to visit the new STEM Lab and Makerspace at the school’s Open Night on Thursday, 6 November, which will include skills demonstrations, student project showcases, and a tour of the facility. 

Local primary schools are also invited to visit the new facility and will be contacted in the coming weeks.

Pupils from Scoil Mhuire, Milford at Friday’s event at Mulroy College.