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Youth Academy, the University of Galway’s flagship outreach programme for high ability pupils in primary and post-primary school, has renewed its partnership with Merit Medical. Merit Medical is a leading multi-national medical device company with significant operations in Galway, employing almost 1,000 people. Over the next five years, the University’s partnership with Merit Medical will enable further development of the Youth Academy programme, opening doors for young learners from diverse backgrounds, inspiring them through innovative activities and providing insights into future careers. Since its launch in 2012 with 64 participants, Youth Academy has grown to welcome more than 8,000 young people and their families to the University of Galway campus, providing opportunities for them to explore their passions, develop new skills and experience university life with like-minded peers. Youth Academy provides high-level, Saturday classes run over six weeks in the Spring and Autumn. Summer camps in science, engineering, computer science and arts are also delivered to primary and secondary school pupils by University of Galway researchers and educators who are committed to fostering a friendly, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.             Professor David Burn, President of University of Galway, said: “University of Galway is very proud of our collaborations with industry to grow and support the pipeline of future students and talent in the region. We are delighted to announce the continuation and strengthening of our partnership with Merit Medical, marking a significant philanthropic investment in the University’s Youth Academy. This renewed commitment will empower and enhance the programme that Merit Medical has supported since its inception, fuelling its growth and impact for young learners across the region.” Since 2019, Merit Medical has supported the expansion of the Youth Academy programme to include post-primary students for the first time, reach more students in the Galway region and beyond, and has supported full scholarships for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, broadening participation and equity of access.           Mark Butler, Executive Vice President, European Operations, Merit Medical, said: “We're delighted to renew Merit Medical's partnership with the Youth Academy and the University of Galway - a cornerstone of our local community and a place where young people can discover their potential. At Merit Medical we believe that investing in youth is investing in the future. By working together, we're helping to build confidence, opportunity, and connection - strengthening the community we're proud to be part of." A recent study of the long-term impact of Youth Academy participation revealed that it has a very positive influence on chosen Leaving Cert subjects and is a motivation to study at third level. The study identified that 87% of parents reported that participation had opened their child’s mind to new areas of study and possible careers. In addition, two thirds reported a positive or highly positive impact for female pupils in challenging gender stereotypes in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects. Read more about Youth Academy here: https://www.universityofgalway.ie/youthacademy/ Ends