University of Galway Students Win Awards for Sustainability and Inclusion

BREAKING: Two student-led projects from the University of Galway have just won prestigious awards for their innovative efforts in sustainability and diversity. The awards were announced today at the 2023 ENLIGHT Teaching and Learning Conference, recognizing impactful student initiatives that align with ENLIGHT’s core values.

In the Sustainability category, Adam Mullins of the University of Galway Students’ Union claimed the top prize for the initiative called SPÉIR – SU Pantry. This groundbreaking project collects surplus food—often in damaged packaging or nearing expiration—from FoodCloud and redistributes it to students, effectively combating food waste while supporting those in need.

Meanwhile, the Diversity and Inclusion category saw the Active* Champions project awarded first place. The initiative focuses on peer education to address critical issues surrounding inclusion and awareness.

“We can never have enough initiatives that highlight these issues,”

remarked judges during the announcement. The award was accepted by María José Hun, a postgraduate student representing a dedicated team of peer educators tackling subjects like sexual violence prevention, consent, and well-being.

These awards, supported by the Government and the European Commission, highlight the ongoing commitment of the ENLIGHT European University Alliance—a coalition of ten research-intensive universities formed in 2020—to empower students and address global challenges through innovative solutions.

The recognition of these projects signifies a major step forward in fostering sustainability and inclusiveness within academic institutions. University of Galway is setting a precedent for other universities aiming to make a difference in their communities.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to follow the impact of these award-winning projects and what they mean for future initiatives at the University of Galway and beyond.