A spectrum of subjects, including the scientific approach to executing an impeccable penalty kick, the benefits of walking, and baking, was the focus of the recent group of students from Trinity’s Centre for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities at this year’s Scifest exhibition that took place at the academic institution last Thursday.
A small group of 10 students who are studying to receive their qualification in Arts, Science, and Inclusive Applied Practice, showcased their efforts and work at the event; an event graced by the presence of alumni, academics, and collaborators on the course.
Volunteers from Abbott, a multinational pharmaceuticals and healthcare company, that has been a participant in this project for the past eight years, have each mentored one of the students.
Marie Devitt, the facilitator for the programme, enthusiastically shared, “A majority of these young adults haven’t previously had exposure to the sciences in their academic journey, hence it’s incredibly rewarding to observe them evolve from working on their projects to eventually presenting them before an attentive audience at the launch.”
Marie further commented on how the experience has built their self-assurance incredibly. “It’s heartening and transformative for some students. What initially began as a modest Scifest project has blossomed into a major event for the students, due primarily to their avidity and the steady support they garner along the way.”
The programme boasts over 50 commercial collaborators like Ryanair, Arthur Cox, and Smurfit Kappa. Following this, the students shall begin salaried internships with some partners, before they graduate the course early next year.
“The purpose is to collaboratively find the most suitable roles for the students with the companies. While some express an interest in HR or administrative tasks, they are only in the nascent stage of exploring options. The idea is to keep trying until they find their ideal fit,” Marie explained.
In the past, over 50 students have graduated from the course, with nearly half gaining permanent appointments with the companies they interned for.