Tipperary Students Present Innovative STEM Projects at Dream Space Showcase

DUBLIN, IRELAND – On June 20, 2025, students from seven schools in Tipperary showcased their innovative STEM projects at the third annual Microsoft Dream Space Showcase held at Microsoft’s Dublin Campus. This event gathered students from Gortnahoe National School, Ballinahinch National School, Nenagh CBS, Presentation Primary School in Clonmel, Rossmore National School, Rossmore Scratchers, and St Mary’s Primary Nenagh, allowing them to demonstrate how their STEM and artificial intelligence (AI) skills can effectively address real-world challenges.

The Microsoft Dream Space initiative, launched in 2018, aims to provide students across Ireland with immersive STEM learning experiences. The program has grown to include over 800 students presenting more than 110 projects targeting pressing issues such as environmental sustainability, health, and accessibility. Projects ranged from earthquake sensors and plant health monitors to food waste trackers and inclusive communication tools, showcasing the creativity and problem-solving capabilities of young innovators.

According to James O’Connor, Site Leader and Corporate Vice President at Microsoft Global Operations Service Centre, “As Microsoft celebrates 40 years in Ireland, we are incredibly proud to have students from across the country visit our campus to showcase the STEM and AI projects they developed. With AI transforming how we learn, live, and work, it’s vital that every young student, irrespective of their background, can engage confidently in STEM and AI learning.”

The showcase reflects a significant increase in student engagement, with project submissions growing nearly 200% since the event's inception in 2023. This surge highlights the enthusiasm among students to apply their STEM knowledge creatively. Students from Tipperary, Longford, Cork, Mayo, Monaghan, and Waterford have shown remarkable participation, and the initiative continues to expand, reaching more communities each year.

The educational journey leading to the showcase is a year-long process that incorporates a blend of in-class activities, digital resources, and direct engagement with the Dream Space program. Participants utilize content from three television series – Full STEAM Ahead, Code Green, and brAIn_waves – which equip them with vital skills in coding, computational thinking, sustainability, and AI. This comprehensive approach ensures that students not only learn theoretical concepts but also apply them in practical settings.

The projects exhibited at the showcase align closely with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, demonstrating how technology can drive positive change in society. The culmination of the learning experience at the Microsoft Dream Space Showcase inspires students to envision their future roles in an increasingly digital world.

As the spotlight on STEM education intensifies, initiatives like the Microsoft Dream Space are pivotal in shaping the next generation’s skills and career aspirations. Looking ahead, Microsoft remains committed to empowering students through its Skill Up Ireland initiatives, ensuring that they possess the necessary skills for the era of AI and can contribute meaningfully to society’s challenges.