Thousands expected at Mallow science and maths fair

FLAMING fireballs, exciting experiments and mind-bending physics will be the order of the day on Sunday as one of Ireland’s largest maths and science fairs returns to Mallow.

Up to 4,000 people are expected to attend the Munster (formerly Mallow) Maths and Science Fair at the GAA Complex in Carrigoon, which will run from 11am – 5pm.

Established five-years ago as an offshoot of the Mallow Maths & Science Schools Initiative, the fair has developed into the country’s most comprehensive exhibition for the Stem (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects.

This year its organisers, the Mallow Development Partnership (MDP), have decided to re-brand the fair in recognition of its growing popularity and the fact that it draws students and parents from across the wider Munster area.

It is also a reflection of the wide net the event has cast, drawing exhibitors from a variety of educational institutions, research institutes, industry leaders and other bodies from across the province.

These include the CIT, the Institute of Physics, Blackrock Observatory, the Defence Forces, Kostal, Clever Mind Toys, Mallow Library and Drive 4 Zero.

Mary Immaculate College will also be at the event, highlighting the results of a project they have pioneered at local primary and secondary schools.

Pupils from the participating schools will be on hand to showcase their experiments and explain the maths and science aspect of their projects.

Visitors to the free event will get the chance to meet and question experts, view and take part in experiments and enjoy the sights and sounds of what an MDP spokesperson promised would be “fun-filled” day.

“The fair provides young people with a valuable opportunity to discuss careers in the engineering, science and research fields with professionals who will offer them advice on the relevant subjects they need to study,” said the spokesperson.

“In keeping with previous years, the fair promises to be a fun-filled, engaging and educational experience for people of all ages.”

Information will also be available in relation to funding, entrepreneurship and innovation for people who may be interested in setting up their own businesses.

For more information look up the dedicated Facebook page or visit www.mallow.ie.

Photo: Sheila Fitzgerald. St. Mary’s Secondary School girls Laura Buckley, Ninah Langsi, Isabelle Zaruba and Kerrie Lloyd demonstrate how science can be ‘music to the ears’ at last year’s Mallow Maths and Science Fair.