Over 50 events in a range of venues will run next week as part of the latest South East Science Festival which aims to provide something for all ages and interests.
The 26th festival, run by the CALMAST hub in South East Technological University whose goal is to improve learning around Maths, science and technology, will look at the role of science in everyday life and has "Human and What it Means to be Human," as its theme.
The programme for adults, schools, children and families includes a look into the connections between geology, soil and the nuanced flavours of whiskey; the unique customs behind the traditional Irish wake; and the perils and benefits of artificial intelligence.
Also featured are events examining the skills of circus tricks and the science behind crafting patterns, and there are quizzes and competitions for primary secondary school audiences and a family Sunday in the Theatre Royal in Waterford this weekend.
Organisers say this year's South East Science Festival also has a serious and solutions-driven agenda with discussion and debate on areas such as tackling coastal erosion with Copper Coast geologist, Robbie Galvin, and the science behind networking at a Networking Ireland event at Faithlegg House Hotel.
There will also be tips and insights into how to increase "healthier life span" and optimise wellbeing from Waterford-based medic, Dr Mark Rowe, at SETU while South East Astronomy and Copper Coast Geopark will have an exploration of the dwarf planets in our solar system. That event takes place in the Geopark itself.
CALMAST (Centre for the Advancement of Learning of Maths, Science and Technology) Director, Dr Sheila Donegan, said the South East Science Festival programme has evolved over the years to meet advances in science, technology, engineering and Maths and offer the general public an insight in pressing areas such as artificial intelligence, healthy ageing and general wellbeing.
"People think of Science Week and they automatically think that everything is focused on schools and on children. South East Science Festival has something for everyone. Whether you’re curious about what makes whisky taste different, want to know more about combating coastal erosion, learn more about our solar system, our events show just how relevant the scientific principles of physics, chemistry and biology are in our everyday lives.
"The South East has become a magnet for science, technology and pharmaceutical firms. The growing sector offers great job prospects for graduates with science-related skills and a world of opportunities, rewarding salaries and a chance to travel the world. We want to showcase how exciting and wonderful science is to all age cohorts, all groups and further boost the take-up of STEM-related programmes in SETU and other universities," Dr Donegan said.
The festival will take place between 12-19 of November.
