Kilkenny and Carlow ETB learners showcase talent to President Catherine Connolly at national Irish language competition
Students from Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach and Coláiste Pobail Osraí Cill Chainnigh attended the event held in The Connacht Hotel, Galway, on Tuesday, March 6th. The national celebration of student voice across Irish-medium schools hosted by Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI) featured an address from the President of Ireland Catherine Connolly, who engaged with students and commended their leadership and creativity throughout the day.
Taking place during Seachtain na Gaeilge, the overall theme of Muintearas this year was: “Ar bhFís don Todhchaí: Ceiliúradh ar Ghuth an Scoláire i scoileanna lán-Ghaeilge na mBord Oideachais agus Oiliúna” (Our Vision for the Future: Celebrating the Student Voice in Irish-Medium Schools of the Education and Training Boards.)
Muintearas ’26 provided a national platform for Irish-medium ETB schools to articulate their collective hopes and ambitions for the future — entirely through Irish. Themes ranged from climate action and technological innovation to mental health, equality, inclusion, respect and the continued growth of the Irish language in modern society.
President Connolly said about the event, “It gives me courage and hope, as President of Ireland, that it is clear that young people understand how important it is for respect to be the basis of any human interaction, that we would be able to respectfully accept different backgrounds and identities, and that it is from this foundation that a kind and compassionate society of the future will grow.”
Gean Gilger, Coordinator of Muintearas ’26, reflected on the impact of the event, “Muintearas ’26 gave students a powerful opportunity to meaningfully discuss issues that are close to their hearts, through Irish, and with confidence. When students realise that their ideas are being listened to at a national level, it strengthens not only their belief in themselves, but also their belief in the value of their language and their education.”
A National Showcase of Student Vision
Muintearas ’26 provided a national platform for Irish-medium ETB schools to articulate their collective hopes and ambitions for the future, entirely through Irish.
A highlight of the day was the vibrant Poster Competition, where each participating school showcased its students’ vision for the Ireland of tomorrow. Themes ranged from climate action and technological innovation to mental health, equality, inclusion and the continued growth of the Irish language in modern society. The creativity, insight and depth of thinking on display reflected a generation deeply engaged with shaping positive change.
Deir Schools Presentation Competition offered students the opportunity to explore issues of importance in even greater depth. Through confident and compelling presentations, students examined the challenges facing their communities and proposed forward-looking solutions. The standard of discussion, critical thinking and fluency in Irish was widely praised by attendees.
Dialogue, Collaboration and Connection
Beyond the formal competitions, Muintearas ’26 created meaningful space for collaboration and dialogue. Students participated in round-table discussions, exchanged ideas with peers from Irish-medium ETB schools across the country, and built new friendships and networks.
The atmosphere throughout the day was energetic and optimistic, underscoring the strength of Irish as a living language of debate, creativity and leadership.
National Partnership and Recognition
ETBI acknowledged the valued support of COGG, whose commitment to Irish-medium education continues to strengthen initiatives such as Muintearas ’26.
A special moment during the event saw students from Coláiste na bPiarsach, representing Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board, present a commemorative piece to President Connolly on behalf of ETBI. The presentation symbolised the shared vision and ambition of Irish-medium ETB schools nationwide.
Looking Ahead
Muintearas ’26 stands as a powerful testament to ETBI’s commitment to amplifying student voice and nurturing leadership within Irish-medium education. As the day concluded, one message rang clear: the future of education — and of the Irish language — is in capable, creative and confident hands.