STEM Fair Committee Remain Positive for 2020 Mallow Event

October 11th is the agreed date scheduled for the staging of the 2020 Munster Maths and Science Family Fair in Mallow. Inaugurated in 2010 by Mallow Development Partnership, the fair celebrates its 10th anniversary this year but will do so in very unusual circumstances. The dramatic changes brought about by Covid-19, particularly regarding social distancing and mass gatherings, could provide a major challenge in the months ahead.

Already deep into planning, news from the organising committee shows an incredibly positive response is being received with over 30 exhibitors committed to participating at this year’s fair. The event also received a very welcome boost last week with a decision from Cork County Council’s Economic Development Fund to continue their role as main sponsor and another key supporter, the Irish American Partnership, has also confirmed their annual support for 2020.

The summer months will be used by the committee to continue with planning and to closely monitor the progress of the government’s roadmap to reopening Ireland. By the time of our school’s expected return in late August, the necessary groundwork will be in place and enough Covid-19 experience gained to put the committee in the best possible position to make a fully informed decision regarding the fair.

It is hoped the interim period, which has started so successfully, will see further easing of restrictions and that any potentially new circumstances can be incorporated by the fair to meet up-to-date medical advice and statutory requirements.

Growing year on year in stature the annual Munster Maths and Science Family Fair sees leaders in business and industry as well as research and third level institutes, combined with primary and secondary schools, all gathering to showcase the fun side to STEM disciplines (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) through a wide array of engaging and interactive experiments, demonstrations and displays for all ages to enjoy.

Previous years have seen up to 5,000 attendees pass through the spacious Mallow GAA Complex during the event day in October and even though current conditions are extreme, all involved believe it is important to continue with preparations in order to give everyone something positive to work towards, for what could be a model post Covid-19 event launching our new ‘normal’ living conditions.