Two Mayo schools honoured as Champion Schools of Sanctuary

Two Mayo schools, Ballyhaunis Community School and Sancta Maria College, Louisburgh have been officially recognised as Champion Schools of Sanctuary at a special awards ceremony hosted by the University of Galway.

A Champion School of Sanctuary is the highest level of recognition in the Schools of Sanctuary programme, which follows a “Learn, Action, Share” framework to foster a culture of welcome, challenge prejudice, and build understanding about forced migration.

Ballyhaunis Community School and Sancta Maria College were among those recognised for embedding inclusion across their school communities and promoting understanding among students, teachers, and parents alike.

The ceremony was hosted by University of Galway’s Office of the Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and the Access Centre, in collaboration with Schools of Sanctuary Ireland and Galway City Partnership. The event underscores the University’s commitment to advancing equality and inclusion within the education sector and beyond.

Dr Helen Maher, Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at University of Galway, said: “At University of Galway, we are deeply committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging not only across our campus, but within the wider education system. The Champion Schools of Sanctuary embody these same values, creating learning environments where every student feels seen, supported, and valued. By recognising and celebrating these schools, we are also acknowledging the powerful role education plays in shaping compassionate, empathetic communities.”

Imelda Byrne, Head of the Access Centre at University of Galway, said: “At University of Galway Access Centre, we are deeply committed to fostering inclusion at every level of education. The Schools of Sanctuary initiative reflects that same spirit, it’s about ensuring every learner feels seen, supported, and valued. We’re proud to celebrate these schools for creating spaces where belonging isn’t just encouraged, it’s lived every day.”

Cllr. Helen Ogbu, Galway City Council, who has supported the work in schools, said: “Across counties and communities, these schools are demonstrating real leadership in creating inclusive and welcoming environments for every student. I’m proud to support their achievements today and to acknowledge the important partnerships driving this meaningful work.”

The Awards Ceremony was funded by the Office of the Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, the Access Centre, and Galway City Partnership.

Pictured above are students from Sancta Maria College, Louisburgh pictured with: back, from left:Dr Mary Surlis, Senior Academic Manager, Access Centre and Dr Helen Maher, Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, University of Galway; Sara Hakim, Director, Schools of Sanctuary Ireland; and Dr Daniel Savery, Widening Participation Officer, Access Centre, University of Galway.

Front: Dr Áine Moran, Principal, Sancta Maria College, Louisburgh; Cllr. Helen Ogbu, Galway City Council; and teacher Keira Kennelly, Sancta Maria College, Louisburgh, at the Champion School of Sanctuary awards ceremony held at University of Galway. Pic: Mike Shaughnessy.

READ MORE: 15 Mayo schools to receive funding for refurbishments