Boost for Mayo as new lecturer joins ATU and launches fully funded MSc bursaries
The Sunflower Scholarships aim to support students in outdoor education and sustainability
A major boost for education and sustainability in Mayo has been announced as marine social scientist Dr Easkey Britton joins Atlantic Technological University (ATU) as an Adjunct Lecturer.
Dr Britton has taken up her role within the university’s Department of Environmental Humanities and Social Sciences at the Mayo campus, while also launching two new bursaries for students enrolling in the MSc in Outdoor Education, Sustainability and Wellbeing.
The bursaries, known as the Sunflower Scholars, are funded by the Sunflower Foundation and aim to remove financial barriers for students committed to community resilience, wellbeing and environmental sustainability.
The scholarships will cover the full cost of the two-year part-time programme, which is due to begin in September 2026.
Speaking at the launch, Dr Britton said she was honoured to join ATU and support a programme focused on real-world learning.
“Outdoor education has a powerful role to play in how we respond to today’s challenges,” she said. “The Sunflower Scholarship is an important way to support those who want to nurture more sustainable and compassionate ways of living.”
Originally from Ireland’s West, Dr Britton is widely recognised for her work in marine social science and “blue health” — exploring the relationship between water environments and human wellbeing.
The MSc programme is designed for a wide range of participants, including educators, community workers, outdoor leaders and health professionals, and combines online learning with practical, place-based experience in Mayo.
Head of Department Dr Deirdre Garvey welcomed the initiative, encouraging applications from diverse backgrounds.
“This is a unique opportunity to join a vibrant, community-focused programme and help shape a more sustainable future,” she said.
The announcement further strengthens ATU Mayo’s position as a centre for outdoor education and sustainability, while also widening access to higher education in the region.