Longford Students graduate from Maynooth University with ‘Introduction to 21st Century STEM Skills

Longford County Council pioneered the STEM Passport for Inclusion

Students from St. Mel’s College, Lanesboro Community College, Ardscoil Phádraig and Moyne Community School were among graduates from across Leinster who took part in the recent STEM Passport for Inclusion graduation ceremony at Maynooth University.
The County Longford students joined peers from around the country in celebrating the successful completion of the university‑accredited Level 6 National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) module, ‘Introduction to 21st Century STEM Skills’.
Mairead Reynolds from St Mel’s College graduated on the day and also received the Outstanding School Engagement Award. This award recognised St Mel’s College as having shown exceptional commitment to the programme, with lead teacher Mairead Reynolds and staff supporting students every step of the way. Mairead has worked closely with the team in Maynooth University ensuring clear communication, completing key administrative tasks and supporting the logistics that make the programme possible. Her dedication and collaboration helped create a positive, inclusive environment where students are empowered to achieve their goals. 
Longford County Council piloted the STEM Passport for Inclusion programme in local hubs the Latin School Moyne and EDI Centre during the 2023/2024 academic year. Following its ongoing success, the programme has expanded for the 2025/2026 academic year and is now being offered and delivered across all nine post‑primary schools in County Longford.
Delivering the programme locally has reduced transportation costs and has removed the need for participants to travel to Dublin, making the programme far more accessible for our rural communities.
Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh said, “This programme has opened real opportunities for young people in County Longford. It is encouraging to see students from our post‑primary schools complete a university‑accredited module and be recognised for their work. It shows what can be achieved when education is made accessible and inclusive.”
Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon said, “Longford County Council is proud to have piloted and expanded the STEM Passport for Inclusion locally. Delivering the programme in the county has removed practical barriers for students and supported equal access to third‑level pathways. This initiative reflects our commitment to education, inclusion and regional opportunity.”
The STEM passport for Inclusion programme is a joint initiative led by Maynooth University, in partnership with Microsoft, Science Foundation Ireland, and the Department of Education. The programme aims to address inequality in access to STEM education and careers by breaking barriers and empowering students from under-served backgrounds to pursue career pathways in science, technology, engineering and maths.
Through the programme students learn core STEM skills including design thinking, computational thinking and Python, while also benefiting from academic supports and mentoring from industry professionals. On completion, eligible students can avail of the DEIS STEM Pathway which offers an additional 50/60 Leaving Certificate points for entry to designated STEM courses at Maynooth University, Munster Technological University and Technological University of the Shannon.
Sincere thanks was extended to the teachers who supported the students and enabled their participation in this fantastic programme. Special thanks also to Stephen Gillic, Lecturer at Maynooth University for travelling to County Longford to deliver the programme and to Isabel Meza Silva and Leigh Butler for all their leadership and guidance to ensure the success of the programme in Longford.