Tag: Practical

Taoiseach Micheál Martin announces €750,000 funding from Google.org for Docklands upskilling initiatives

Taoiseach, Micheál Martin joined Google’s Vanessa Hartley at the Fair Play Cafe in Ringsend today to announce €750,000 in funding from Google.org, the philanthropic arm of Google, to St Andrews Resource Centre. This project will deliver comprehensive wrap-around training and support to 1,000+ unemployed individuals and early school leavers in Dublin Docklands communities, aiming for at least 50% of beneficiaries to access further education or employment opportunities.

The funding will help future-proof Dublin’s Docklands communities through hyperlocal training initiatives that will strengthen essential skills and provide support to help people access jobs, education, and long-term employment opportunities.

Google.org provided the funding to St Andrews Resource Centre who will use the funds to support the work of This City Works, a platform between Dublin city-based community employment services, helping job seekers in Dublin find the right job for them. The training will be delivered through several vital programmes. These include a certified Train-the-Trainer programme for unemployed adults, an expanded community-based digital support for early school leavers and long-term unemployed, and a Level 5 Homecare Assistant course for 20 learners aimed at bridging local employment gaps and preparing students for AI-linked apprenticeships.

The grant will also fund wraparound support across multiple partner organisations such as LIR, Lets Go, FAACT, Fair Play Digital Hub, and others to ensure learners can access coaching, mentoring, and practical assistance. The initiative will support 100 learners through career development programmes, upskill students in ten local schools, and enable 15 learners with additional support needs to complete a modular employment programme.

Speaking at today’s event Taoiseach Micheál Martin said:

“The strength of Ireland’s digital future lies in our people. This initiative directly supports our national ambition to make Ireland a global leader in applied AI. It is vital that early school leavers and those seeking new career paths have direct access to AI and digital literacy. This project shows that when we align community needs with the right training, we create a more inclusive, resilient, and future-proof workforce for the Dublin Docklands and beyond. I want to thank Google.org for its continued commitment to this invaluable work.”

Vanessa Hartley, Head of Google Ireland, said:

“The Docklands has been our home for over twenty years and we are dedicated to working in partnership with our neighbours to identify the skills and support they need to succeed. In today’s world, fluency in digital tools and AI is no longer optional, it’s essential.  The success of our programmes in recent years is why we remain committed to ensuring people from all backgrounds have access to the skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving society and work environment.”

Jim Hargis  St Andrews Resource Centre and member of This City Works, said:

“Support like this is the lifeblood of community development. It means we can immediately scale up our operations to meet the rising demand for vocational and AI and digital skills training in the Docklands community. We are grateful to Google.org for its ongoing support on this initiative, which will have a tangible, lasting impact on the lives of our learners and their families.”

The goal of This City Works is to empower vulnerable and at-risk school leavers and unemployed people in the local community of Ringsend and Pearse Street by providing training and skill enhancement opportunities, complemented by support services, with the aim of increasing their employability and promoting social inclusion.

For more information visit This City Works.

88 Guides and Senior Branchers will compete in FIRST LEGO League Challenge Regional at DCU

From ancient artefacts to cutting-edge robotics, Irish Girl Guides (IGG) are preparing for a day of discovery as 16 teams from across the country take part in the FIRST LEGO League Challenge Regional at Dublin City University (DCU) on Saturday 28 February 2026.

This season’s FIRST LEGO League Challenge theme, UNEARTHED™, invites teams to step into the role of archaeologists. Throughout the year, participants have explored how the past is uncovered, studied, and protected, and how innovation can help solve real challenges faced in archaeology today. Their innovation projects focus on identifying genuine problems in the field and proposing creative, practical solutions that could help preserve history for future generations.

Alongside their research, teams have designed, built, and programmed LEGO® robots to complete a series of themed missions, developing skills in coding, engineering, and critical thinking along the way.

Bringing together girls from 11 IGG Guide and Senior Branch Units, the Regional Tournament celebrates curiosity, collaboration, and problem-solving. Participants will put their STEM skills to the test through a high-energy robot game, an innovation project, and presentations that reflect the FIRST® LEGO® League Core Values of teamwork, inclusion, and gracious professionalism.

The event marks a key milestone in the FIRST LEGO League season, with teams competing for a place in the Ireland Final on Saturday 21 March 2026.

We wish the very best of luck to all the teams taking part in the Regional Tournament:

conNÈCKt – Lucan Guides (4 team members)
The Fossil Finders – Lucan Guides (4 team members)
Spaghetti Rollz – Ardagh Guides (7 team members)
Ancient Coders – Ardagh Guides (7 team members)
Kerry Relic Rangers – Dingle Guides (3 team members)
An Daingean Diggers – Dingle Guides (6 team members)
KRILL-iana Jones – North Longford Guides (5 team members)
Barney the Dinosaur – Lily Guides (8 team members)
Rock Stars – Lily Guides (8 team members)
InGen – Macalla Guides Trim (5 team members)
Clogherhead Heads – Clogherhead Guides (6 team members)
Disco Dynamics – Mullagh Senior Branch (8 team members)
Dilse Diggers – Dilse Senior Branch (3 team members)
The Little Timmies – Cairde Guides (4 team members)
Brickmasters – Naas Guides (5 team members)
U Rockers – Naas Guides (5 team members)

“FIRST LEGO League gives girls the opportunity to explore STEM in a hands-on, meaningful way,” said Katie Keogh, Irish Girl Guides LEGO Project Chair. “Watching teams grow in confidence as they collaborate, problem-solve, and share their ideas is incredibly rewarding. This Regional event is a celebration of all the effort they’ve put in throughout the season.”

The Regional Tournament promises a lively and supportive atmosphere, with families, Leaders, and volunteers cheering on the teams. The day will conclude with a showcase of innovation projects and achievements, recognising the creativity, resilience, and teamwork demonstrated by every participant.

Supported by the Research Ireland Discover Programme, FIRST® LEGO® League is organised by CreativeHUT.

Novoo Smart Tag NFT1-206G Review: Dual-System Tracker

The Novoo Smart Tag NFT1-206G stands out as a flexible and affordable Bluetooth tracker designed for both iOS (Apple Find My) and Android (Google Find My Device) users, supplying multi-platform support in a slim, lightweight package. The kit includes four separate trackers suitable for luggage, car, keys, and more.

 

Key Features and First Impressions

  • Dual-System Compatibility: This model works seamlessly with Apple’s and Google’s tracking apps. Resetting the tracker is necessary when switching between systems, which is worth noting for travelers using both device types at home.
  • Reliable Certified Chip: The tag uses a certified AIROHA chip, ensuring secure and stable connectivity with official apps.
  • Replaceable Battery: Each Smart Tag is fitted with a CR2032 battery lasting up to one year. Replacing the battery is straightforward, encouraging long-term use.
  • Volume and Alerts: The built-in speaker produces a 60–80dB alert — sufficient for nearby searches, though not exceptionally loud compared to some premium models.
  • Water Resistance: IPX5 rating means suitable for light rain or splashes, but not intended for full immersion or wet conditions — keep this in mind for outdoor or pet tracking.

 

Setup and Usability

Setup is intuitive and does not require technical expertise. Activating the tag and pairing it via Bluetooth and the chosen app takes less than a minute. The tracker can be renamed for practical organisation, like assigning one tag to luggage or a vehicle. In testing, tracking was reliable, and notifications about lost items worked promptly, with last-known locations displayed in-app.

 

Battery lasts up to 1 year and can be replaced with a CR2032

 

 

Note: If the tracker is left, e.g., in a car in case the vehicle is stolen, those in the area of the tracker are notified of the tracker’s presence, whether using an iPhone / Android device.

Niggles:

While the Novoo Smart Tag performs admirably for everyday use, several minor drawbacks warrant mention:

  • No Built-in Keychain Holder: The device is slim and durable but lacks a built-in hook for keys or bags, requiring extra holders to be sourced online. An included accessory would add value.
  • Alert Volume: The ring volume, while decent, may not compete with the loudest on the market, which could be limiting in noisy environments.
  • IPX5 Water Resistance: Suits everyday scenarios like rain or splashes but not immersion; this may be a limitation for pet or outdoor applications, so weigh use cases carefully.

Conclusion

The Smart Tag kit allowed tracking everyday items and vehicles, providing peace of mind for travel or parking. The renaming feature proved valuable for luggage, while the global tracking functioned reliably—useful for recovering stolen property.

The Novoo Smart Tag NFT1-206G delivers strong value in a dual-system Bluetooth tracker, offering versatility and reliable tracking for a fair price. While it excels in ease of use and multi-platform support, prospective buyers should consider the lack of a built-in holder and moderate alert volume. For users searching for an accessible, practical, and budget-friendly tracker, especially those switching between Android and iOS, this unit is worthy of consideration.

BUY

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Practical Gifts for College-Bound High School Graduates That They’ll Actually Use

Smart, Useful, and Appreciated Gifts Your Grad Will Love..

Throughout the years, I’ve been through my fair share of graduation seasons, seeing off my little ones as they step boldly into the next chapter of their lives. With graduation just around the corner, the pressure to find the perfect gift that won’t just gather dust in a closet is on. It’s a challenge, I know! You want something thoughtful, useful, and perhaps a bit fun, right? Well, you’re in luck because today I’m sharing my top picks for graduation gifts that are not only practical but are sure to be appreciated and used by your graduates.

Essential Tech Gadgets and Gear

In our digital age, tech gadgets top the list of must-have items for young adults. Whether they’re heading to college, starting a new job, or taking a gap year, here are a few gadgets that can help make their transition smoother:

  • Laptops and Tablets – Choosing the right laptop or tablet is crucial for any graduate. For college-bound students, look for models that offer a balance of power, durability, and battery life to handle coursework and multimedia needs. Popular choices include the MacBook Air for its long battery life and lightweight design, and the Microsoft Surface for those who prefer a touch interface with the versatility of a detachable keyboard.
  • Ebook Readers – For the voracious reader or the college student majoring in literature, an ebook reader like the Kindle Paperwhite can be a godsend. It reduces the need to carry heavy books and provides instant access to thousands of titles at their fingertips. E-readers are particularly useful for reading in various lighting conditions, thanks to their glare-free screens, and their battery life lasts weeks, which is perfect for the hectic schedules of busy graduates.
  • Smartphones – A reliable smartphone can serve as a lifeline for new graduates. It keeps them connected with friends and family, helps manage their schedule, and supports countless apps that can aid in daily tasks and productivity. The latest models from Apple, Samsung, and Google not only offer excellent camera quality for capturing memories but also come with powerful processors to handle everything from social media to sophisticated job-related applications.
  • Smart Watches – Beyond just telling time, smart watches like the Apple Watch or the Samsung Galaxy Watch can track fitness, monitor health, and allow easy access to notifications without needing to pull out a smartphone. They are especially useful for graduates who have a busy schedule, providing reminders for appointments, emails, and calls right on their wrist.
  • Laptop Backpack – Equipped with their new tech, your grad is going to need something reliable to cart it around campus. Look for college backpacks made from high-quality materials that can withstand daily wear and tear. 
  • Cable Organizers – A perfect addition to a laptop backpack, cable organizers can help your grad keep their cords organized as they hop from class to class. 

Practical Household Items

If your grad is moving out for the first time, there are a few household items that can be incredibly useful:

  • Mini Coffee Maker – Coffee makers are perfect for fueling late-night study sessions or getting an early start before classes. Compact models from Keurig or Nespresso don’t take up much space and work wonders. Plus, it’s better than paying for a cup from a coffee shop.
  • Microwave or Toaster Oven – A compact microwave is another must-have for quick meals. This is particularly crucial for students in dorms where kitchen access can be limited. A microwave can help them heat up leftovers, make popcorn for movie nights, or prepare simple meals like microwaveable rice or pasta, ensuring they’re well-fed even on their busiest days. Just be sure that your grad is allowed one on campus, or that they will be able to return it if it’s not allowed. 
  • Quality Bedding Set – A good night’s sleep is non-negotiable. Invest in a high-quality bedding set to give them the comfort of home, wherever they are.
  • Desk Lamp – A well-lit workspace is essential for productivity. A sleek, adjustable desk lamp not only helps prevent eye strain during late-night studying but can also add a touch of style to a work area. Look for models with built-in USB ports for charging smartphones or other devices, adding extra functionality.

Financial Gifts

Let’s talk about a practical and increasingly popular gift choice—financial gifts. These can help set your grad up for financial success:

  • Gift Cards – Versatile and practical, gift cards let grads buy what they need when they need it. You might get your grad a gift card to their campus bookstore, a local grocery store, or just a plain use-anywhere gift card.
  • Subscriptions and Memberships – Paying for subscriptions or memberships can be a thoughtful way to provide ongoing support throughout the year. Consider services that match the graduate’s interests or needs, such as Netflix or Spotify for entertainment or Adobe Creative Cloud or Microsoft Office for their educational needs. 
  • Savings Bonds or Stocks – Gifting savings bonds or stocks is a great way to introduce graduates to the world of investing. This can teach them about saving and investing for the future, and provide them with a financial asset that can appreciate over time. Savings bonds are a particularly safe investment, while stocks can allow them to start learning about the stock market and financial planning.
  • Cold Hard Cash – Let’s face it—college is expensive. While it isn’t always the most personalized gift, you can rest assured that a cash gift will definitely be used.  Your grad can use it towards books, tuition, or anything else they feel they need. You can never go wrong with cash.

 

Choosing the right gifts for our graduates means considering their future needs and personal tastes. Let’s celebrate this milestone by giving them something that not only marks the occasion but also supports and enhances their new adventures. Here’s to finding the perfect gift that your graduate will truly appreciate and use!

 

Happy gifting and congratulations to all the graduates and their proud families!