Presidential Visit Nov '17
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We waited 49 years to get a Presidential visit, you can wait 49 seconds!!
Uachtaráin na hÉireann, Michael D. Higgins and his wife, Sabina, visited our school in November 2017. This was a unique moment in the history of St Patrick's as it marked the first visit of a President to the building! The visit coincided with the launch of Camara Education Ireland's 100,000th laptop provided for technological education in Africa.
The weeks of preparation within the school community culminated in an amazing afternoon. 4th class and Mr Keelan were the class to 'show-off' the new technology in St Patrick's to President Higgins, CEO of Camara, John Fitzsimons, and all the attending media and guests. Pupils from other classes formed the guard of honour and listened to the wonderful words of encouragement from the President and John from Camara.
The 100,000th laptop was switched on by President Higgins, Sabina and 4th class pupil, Maude McMenamin (see top of page). President Higgins and his party were to stay a total of 7 minutes in the room but were so interested in what was going on on the laptops, they still remained over 20 minutes later! Mrs Higgins was particularly delighted by the YouTube videos on their appearances on the Late Late Show, and the history of the Áras, while President Higgins enjoyed the digital media videos created by the pupils using iPads and media editing software. A subtle reference to Galway United and soccer brought about some laughter too!
A day that will certainly live in the memories of all involved. Go raibh mile maith agat, a Uachtaráin!
Will Goodbody (RTE) reporting live from the visit!!
Every age, after all, must have its own aisling and dream of a better, kinder, happier, shared world
Michael D. Higgins