Minister Richmond joins pupils to launch 2026 Our World Awards

At a time when headlines are dominated by conflict, climate change, and inequality, Irish children are stepping forward to show empathy in action. Today at Queen of Angels Primary School, Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond TD, joined pupils to launch the 2026 Our World Awards - celebrating a culture of cooperation and creativity in classrooms across Ireland.

The 2026 programme will see thousands of children take part in workshops, projects, and creative submissions. Pupils engage with the lives of young people in other countries, seeing how they go to school, play, and build their futures. The focus is on mutual learning and cooperation, showing how societies can progress and become more self-sufficient with shared support.

Winning entries from schools will be showcased at the National Finals in June 2026, giving pupils a platform to present their ideas for a fairer, more connected world.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Richmond said:

In a world faced with conflict, climate challenges, and inequality, our young people are showing us that there is another way forward. They are engaging with the realities of others, developing understanding, and imagining a fairer future. The Our World Awards bring these values to life in classrooms across the country, and I am proud to see Irish children leading the charge. Adults have much to learn from the empathy and creativity of children, and I encourage schools nationwide to take part in this year’s programme.

Primary schools nationwide are now invited to register for the 2026 Our World Awards. Full details and entry information are available at OurWorldAwards.ie