Daria Kolomiychuk, a former student of Errigal College, Letterkenny, has made history as
the only recipient from County Donegal to be awarded the prestigious Naughton Foundation
Scholarship this year. The scholarship, worth €24,000, was presented at a ceremony on
Saturday October 12th in Trinity College, Dublin, by founding patrons Dr. Martin Naughton
and his wife Carmel, joined by An Taoiseach Simon Harris. The award recognises academic
and innovative excellence in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
(STEM).
Daria, who moved to Ireland from Ukraine just a few years ago, has accepted a place at
University College Dublin, where she is pursuing a degree in Biomedical Health & Life
Sciences. Her remarkable achievement places her among 37 of Ireland’s top students, all of
whom were awarded third-level scholarships to support their studies in STEM disciplines.
Errigal College’s Principal, Mr. Danny McFadden, expressed his immense pride in Daria’s
success. “Daria’s accomplishment is a testament not only to her dedication and hard work
but also to the supportive and innovative learning environment that Errigal College strives to
provide. We are committed to excellence in education and to encouraging our students to
pursue careers in STEM fields. This award highlights the impact of our continued efforts to
promote STEM subjects and opportunities for all.”
The Naughton Foundation Scholarship is a significant investment in the future of Irish
students, with over €6 million awarded to more than 450 exceptional scholars since its
establishment in 2008. Each scholarship is worth €6,000 per academic year for the duration
of a student’s undergraduate degree. One student from each participating county is
guaranteed to receive the scholarship, with some counties seeing more than one recipient.
In addition, Daria’s former school, Errigal College, received a prize of €1,000 to enhance its
science facilities in recognition of the school’s role in fostering academic excellence.
Daria’s scholarship success highlights Errigal College’s ongoing commitment to fostering a
passion for STEM subjects among its students. The school continues to encourage young
women to pursue studies and careers in traditionally male-dominated fields like engineering
and technology, contributing to a more diverse and inclusive future workforce in Ireland.
As Daria embarks on her next chapter at UCD, her journey emphasises the vital role Errigal
College plays in providing a strong educational foundation and fostering a commitment to
academic excellence. Her success showcases the opportunities that arise when students
are nurtured in an environment dedicated to supporting them to achieve their educational
potential.
