Connect with us
This is the current caption on all the photos - AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick This is the current caption on all the photos - AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick

Education

WATCH Students develop critical skills at successful TUS & MIC Empower AI Summer Camp

Published

8 months ago

on

AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick

Twenty secondary school students from across the region took part in the highly successful Empower AI Summer Camp, hosted by TUS and MIC in collaboration with the HEA

‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick

Twenty secondary school students from across the region took part in the highly successful Empower AI Summer Camp, hosted by Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) and Mary Immaculate College (MIC), in collaboration with the Higher Education Authority (HEA).

Held from July 28 to 31, the four-day camp blended cutting-edge AI technology with entrepreneurial thinking and creative problem-solving. Aimed at students from 3rd to 6th year, the programme offered an immersive, team-based learning experience that encouraged innovation, communication, and design thinking.

The hands-on Empower AI entrepreneurship and innovation camp, delivered by TUS and MIC with support from the Higher Education Authority, offered a unique opportunity for teens in the region from Monday, July 28 to Thursday, July 31.


advertisement
advertisement


advertisement
advertisement


advertisement
advertisement


advertisement
advertisement

“Empower AI is designed to help students build the skills and mindset they’ll need to thrive in tomorrow’s world such as innovation, adaptability, entrepreneurial thinking, and digital confidence,” said Dr. Gillian Barry, Head of Innovation & Enterprise at TUS. “It’s about helping young people understand how to harness technology like AI not just to consume it, but to create with it, solve real problems, and drive change in their communities and careers.”

Participants worked in groups to tackle real-world problems using AI tools, while also learning about the ethics, possibilities, and limitations of the technology. Daily workshops covered topics such as innovation, communication, collaboration, and the entrepreneurial mindset.

Dr. Eleanor Walsh, STEM Outreach Officer at MIC, emphasised the importance of active, student-centred learning “This camp gives students the space to explore, experiment, and ask questions. By working through real-world challenges, they’re developing scientific thinking, creativity, confidence, and problem-solving abilities in a way that’s active and engaging. It’s exciting to see how quickly they connect with the content when it’s hands-on, relevant, and collaborative.”

Students praised the camp for its mix of fun, challenge, and practical skills. Caoimhe, a student entering sixth year, said “ I am going into sixth year in school and I’m a student at Empower AI in TUS and I’ve had a great week here and I’ve made lots of friends and learned a lot about AI and the things I can do with it. I would definitely come back here again.”

Rebecca, a student who is entering third year, added, “ We have learned the abilities and limitations of many different AI programs and more, such as having a module on communication. Caoimhe and I are currently in a group together doing a project in which we have to find a problem and then find a solution. So, we are also learning about the key steps in entrepreneurial skills. I would definitely come back here again.”

Now in its ninth year, the EMPOWER programme was developed by TUS and MIC alongside educators, researchers, entrepreneurs and business and technology leaders, and youth organisations. This is the second year the programme has included a dedicated AI strand.

The success of this summer’s Empower AI camp reflects the growing demand for creative, entrepreneurial, and tech-driven learning experiences among young people. With another camp planned later this year, students, parents, and educators are encouraged to stay informed by visiting the TUS and MIC websites for updates and application details.

AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick
AN ‘Empower AI’ summer camp aimed at secondary students organised by Technological University of the Shannon and Mary Immaculate College took place at TUS from July 25th to 31st, 2025 and was a huge success blending fun with future-focused skills development. The hands-on summer camp offered a unique opportunity to Limerick teens and was supported by the Higher Education Authority. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick

Pictures: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick

Related Topics:

Richard is a presenter, producer, songwriter and actor. He was named the Limerick Person of the Year (2011) and won an online award at the Metro Éireann Media and Multicultural Awards (2011) for promoting multi-culturalism online. Richard says that the ilovelimerick.com concept is very much a community driven project that aims to document life in Limerick. So, that in 20 years time people can look back and remember the events that were making the headlines.