Curiosity Cube brings Interactive AI to Cork schools
This year's theme focused on Artificial Intelligence, with over 1,400 students and visitors taking part in hands-on experiments led by 45 Merck volunteers.
Primary school students were afforded the opportunity to explore how AI is shaping the world around us through experiments and engaging demonstrations.
Participating schools included Bunscoil Rinn an Chabhlaigh, Rushbrook; Gaelscoil Mhainistir na Corann, Midleton; Midleton CBS Boys Primary School; Scoil Mhuire Naofa, Carrigtwohill; and Scoil Chroí Íosa, Blarney.
The Curiosity Cube offers young learners a unique opportunity to explore real-world science in a fun, engaging way, and this year's visit sparked incredible enthusiasm from both students and educators.
Merck, a leading science and technology company, delivered an innovative, hands-on science experience aimed at igniting curiosity and inspiring the next generation of scientists.
The Curiosity Cube is a retrofitted shipping container turned mobile science lab, which offers interactive STEM learning opportunities to local students and the wider community, bringing science to life in an engaging and accessible way.
The purpose-built mobile science lab is equipped with practical science experiments led by Merck scientists, and is powered by 100% solar energy, harvested by the panels on its roof, reflecting Merck's commitment to sustainability and innovation in science education.
Mark Dunphy, Managing Director and Head of Cork Operations at Merck Life Science Ireland said: 'By bringing real-world experiments directly to students, we hope to inspire young minds to ask questions, explore boldly, and consider careers in science and technology.
"It's incredibly rewarding to see the level of engagement and enthusiasm from both students and educators here in Cork. This kind of STEM outreach has the power to shape futures,' he added.
The Curiosity Cube tours across North America and Europe, making stops at schools, summer camps, and public venues such as parks, festivals, and museums.
During its visit to Cork, the initiative was met with great enthusiasm, engaging over 1,400 students and attendees in interactive experiments delivered by 58 dedicated Merck volunteers.
It travelled across the two Merck sites, both Blarney and Carrigtwohill welcoming students, educators, and families to participate in a variety of science experiments and demonstrations.
This initiative is part of Merck's broader commitment to STEM education and community engagement.
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