Wexford Schools Among 22,000 Students Taking Part In Gaeilge24 Challenge

More than 22,000 students across Ireland are being encouraged to speak only Irish for 24 hours as part of a national language challenge, with a strong Wexford contingent taking part.

Gaeilge24, organised by Conradh na Gaeilge, sees students from around 250 schools challenge themselves to use Irish throughout their everyday lives, not just in the classroom, but at home, in shops, with friends and at sports clubs.

Three Wexford schools are taking part in the challenge tomorrow: Ramsgrange National School, Scoil Mhuire in New Ross and Gorey Educate Together Secondary School.

Meánscoil Gharman in Inis Córthaidh are also due to take part later this week.

Speaking to South East Radio News, Aodhán Ó Deá, Director of Development with Conradh na Gaeilge, says the initiative has been running for 13 or 14 years and has grown in popularity every year.

He says schools are marking the occasion in different ways, with activities including sports days, céilís, sleepovers through Irish and collaborations with local businesses to encourage the use of the language in the wider community.

He says the aim is to show students that Irish is a living language which can be used in all aspects of everyday life.

This year's theme is 'The Future of the Irish Language', with young people being encouraged to explore the opportunities the language can offer in areas such as technology, social media, music and careers.

Mr Ó Deá says there has been a significant resurgence of interest in Irish in recent years, with growing membership of Irish-language organisations and more opportunities for young people to use the language.

He says it is important that the next generation is included in conversations about the future of Irish and understands the opportunities available to them.

He also described this year's participation as one of the biggest Gaeilge24 campaigns to date, with schools from all 31 counties getting involved.

A programme of activities has been organised for participating students, including a live quiz, an interactive panel discussion, a TikTok competition, Crazy Bingo and workshops exploring careers through Irish.