Zack O’Leary wins SciFest National Final 2025

Zack O’Leary from Co. Kildare representing Clongowes Wood College, has won the overall title of SciFest STEM Champion 2025 for his project M.A.N.T.I.S “Muon Analysis for Non-Invasive Tomography and Image Simulation”.  Zack will go on to represent Ireland at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Phoenix, Arizona next May. SciFest is Ireland’s largest, most-inclusive all-island STEM fair programme for second-level students.

The SciFest National Final, held in Marino Conference Centre in Dublin today, was attended by students from every corner of Ireland with 51 students from 31 schools qualifying to participate this year. Students secured their place at the National Final by winning one of the top awards at the 15 regional SciFest fairs earlier in the year.

This year’s programme also featured five international projects from students in Sri Lanka and South Africa, further extending the global network of SciFest.

Since 2006, the programme continues to grow and expand, reporting an increase in student participation year on year. This growth has been made possible by the continued support of the Department of Education and Youth, Research Ireland and our industry partners, Intel Ireland, Boston Scientific, EirGrid and Keenova.

As SciFest prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary next year, the programme’s mission remains the same – to encourage students’ participation in STEM in an enjoyable and interactive way. SciFest is free to enter and open to everyone across the island of Ireland, no matter their background or circumstance.

Speaking today at this year’s National Final, CEO and Founder of SciFest, Sheila Porter commented: “On behalf of everyone here at SciFest, I would like to extend a warm congratulations to all the participants, and in particular to Zack O’Leary for winning the title of SciFest STEM Champion 2025. We saw a significant increase in technology projects this year focusing on artificial intelligence and medical devices – it is great to see students take a strong interest in solving real world problems.”

“SciFest’s purpose remains to inspire and empower the next generation to engage with the world of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. It has been a pleasure to watch SciFest continue to grow and to meet with all the immensely talented and bright students that participate every year. I want to extend my gratitude to everyone who has been involved – from our students, teachers, parents and judges to our wonderful sponsors – all of whom have contributed to this extraordinary event. “

House of Marley announce eco-conscious Champion True Wireless earbuds. #Tech #Eco

House of Marley today announces the expansion of their true wireless earbuds collection with the release of Champion, an eco-conscious alternative to traditional earbuds. Crafted using renewable bamboo, natural wood fibre composite and REGRIND™ recycled silicone within a sleek, compact case, Champion is the third true wireless offering from the sustainably-minded audio maker.

Designed as an everyday companion, Champion invites you to wake up and live, bringing music and convenience wherever life takes you these days. The true wireless earbuds offer market-leading battery life with 8 hours between charges and 28 hours of total playtime with the case. Its exceptional seal provides a snug, ergonomic fit and noise isolating environment, so nothing gets between you and the wireless sound.

With an IPX4 certified water and sweat resistance rating, Champion is designed for active lives and environments, ensuring you stay connected even during intense workouts. On-ear control lets you easily play, pause, change tracks and take calls at the click of a button while on the go. Crystal clear stereo voice communications allow you to hear and be heard during calls with seamless connectivity. Conveniently packed in House of Marley’s most compact case design to date, Champion effortlessly slides into your pocket or bag without added bulk or weight.

“This year marks the 10th Anniversary for House of Marley as an eco-minded audiomaker,” explains House of Marley’s Director of Product Development Josh Poulsen. “With that, we wanted to offer a greener alternative within the under £60 category for true wireless earbuds. For the Champion, we’ve taken our popular Liberate Air and reduced the charging case by 30% to offer a sleeker, smaller design for those looking for even more portability and convenience. The result is a stylish and affordable option that answers the consumer demand for more environmentally conscious products.”

Continuing their commitment to reducing plastic waste, Champion follows House of Marley’s shift to 100% recyclable packaging. As part of a conscious effort to use FSC™ certified materials, recycled paper, recycled PET and paper fibre ties instead of the plastic standard, the new packaging is addressing the need for simpler, fully-recyclable packaging within consumer electronics. Additionally, the Champion case includes a braided charging cord made of 99% post-consumer recyclable polyester, a design innovation to be reflected in future House of Marley offerings.

CHAMPION PRODUCT FEATURES

  • Materials: Bamboo, natural wood fibre composite, REGRIND™ recycled silicone
  • 8 hour battery life, 28 hours of total playtime
  • Ear housing touch control
  • IPX4 certified water and sweat resistant design
  • USB-C quick charge technology (15 min = 2 hours)
  • Bluetooth™ 5.0 + BLE
  • RRP: £59.99

Champion will be available today at thehouseofmarley.co.uk, Amazon and selected retailers nationwide.