Teagasc brings food and farming science to students at ESB Science Blast

Teagasc was proud to again play a key role in this year’s ESB Science Blast 2025. Eimear Ferguson, Science Communication & Engagement officer, tells us more about welcoming thousands of enthusiastic primary school students & their teachers to engage with cutting-edge agricultural & food research.

As both a sponsor and an exhibitor, Teagasc brought an interactive and educational experience to the event, highlighting the exciting science behind sustainable food production, microbiology, plant health, and more.

Engaging Young Scientists at the Teagasc Stand

Students visiting the Teagasc stand had the opportunity to immerse themselves in a range of interactive demonstrations and activities. From exploring the latest advancements in farming technology and food science to understanding microbiology and plant health, the stand offered a hands-on experience designed to inspire curiosity. Children engaged with sensory science experiments, learned about soil biodiversity through a live wormery, discovered the role of microbes in food production, and explored innovations like drones in agriculture and rainwater harvesting. These activities provided a fun and educational way to connect young learners with real-world scientific applications in agriculture and food research. Science Communication and Engagement Officer Eimear Ferguson led the coordination of Teagasc’s involvement in the event, ensuring an enjoyable experience for students, teachers, and Teagasc colleagues alike.

Judging Ireland’s Young Scientific Talent

Beyond the interactive stand, Teagasc played a crucial role in assessing the impressive science projects presented by primary school students. Judging the students’ innovative projects were Teagasc experts including Dheeraj Singh Rathore, Jane Kavanagh, and Anna Fenelon, who brought their extensive knowledge in agricultural science, education, and research to the task. They were inspired by the creativity and enthusiasm of the students, who tackled topics ranging from environmental sustainability to food science and animal health.

Encouraging the Next Generation of Scientists

Teagasc’s presence at ESB Science Blast 2025 reinforced its commitment to fostering scientific curiosity among young learners. By engaging with primary school students in a fun and meaningful way, Teagasc is helping to shape the next generation of researchers, farmers, and science enthusiasts who will play a role in Ireland’s future agricultural sustainability.