University of Galway has recognised Coláiste Muire Máthair and Galway Educate Together Secondary School for their commitment to creating welcoming, inclusive, and safe environments for students.
These two Galway schools as well as five other schools from around the country were recognised at an awards ceremony held at the University’s Institute for Lifecourse and Society, celebrating the official designation of the seven schools as Champion Schools of Sanctuary.
The seven designated Champion Schools of Sanctuary are Coláiste Muire Máthair, Galway Educate Together Secondary School, Ballyhaunis Community School (Co. Mayo ), Brusna National School (Co. Roscommon ), Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School (Limerick ), Sancta Maria College (Louisburgh, Co. Mayo ), and Ballinlough National School (Co. Roscommon ).
A Champion School of Sanctuary is the highest level of the Schools of Sanctuary programme, which follows a 'Learn, Action, Share' framework to foster a culture of welcome, challenge prejudice and build understanding about forced migration. These schools demonstrated active inclusion across the school community.
The awards ceremony was hosted by the Office of the Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and the Access Centre at University of Galway, in collaboration with Schools of Sanctuary Ireland and Galway City Partnership. The event underscores the University’s commitment to advancing equality and inclusion within the education sector and beyond.
Dr Helen Maher, Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at University of Galway, said that the University of Galway are "deeply committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging - not only across our campus, but within the wider education system".
"Across counties and communities, these schools are demonstrating real leadership in creating inclusive and welcoming environments for every student," added Cllr Helen Ogbu, Galway City Council, who has supported the work in schools.
Director of Schools of Sanctuary Ireland, Sara Hakim said that in a "current climate of anti-migrant activity and unrest, the granting of this official status to these seven schools is timely".
