The Insight Scholarship Programme, supported by funding from Google, is the largest scholarship programme of its kind in Ireland. With a funding package of €1.5 million, more than 60 undergraduate students will receive scholarship support between 2024–2029. The scholarship will support third level students, entering their first year of university, from underrepresented and socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds and communities, with a particular focus placed on students studying courses related to artificial intelligence (AI) and digital safety. A mentorship programme is a key part of the initiative.

The first cohort of scholars was awarded scholarships by An Taoiseach Micheál Martin at an event in Google HQ in Dublin in February this year.

“We’re thrilled with how the first year of our programme has gone,’ says scholarship coordinator Megan Griffin. ‘The 40 students from last year are ready to start their second year and begin their mentorship in October. This new stage is made possible by the incredible support of over 100 mentors from the STEM industry who have signed up to guide our students.

‘We’re excited to welcome 25 new students in September, bringing our total to 65. Our focus remains on supporting every student, which is why we’re proud to offer mentorship to students who rank high on the scale of disadvantage, even if they didn’t qualify for a scholarship.

We wish all our students, both returning and new, the best of luck in the coming academic year. We’re looking forward to celebrating their achievements with another celebratory event in 2026.’