SETU’s Kilkenny Road Campus in Carlow was transformed into a celebration of Irish cinema recently as the Dublin International Film Festival (DIFF) brought an exceptional programme of film, discussion and industry insight to students across the Department of Sport, Media and Marketing, supported by Screen Ireland.
The campus visit provided an exciting opportunity for students to experience a selection of outstanding Irish filmmaking on the big screen, with approximately 250 students attending screenings across the day. The programme showcased the breadth and quality of contemporary Irish cinema, including the Oscar-nominated An Cailín Ciúin (The Quiet Girl), the much-loved Irish classic Adam & Paul, and an exceptional programme of short films highlighting emerging and established filmmaking talent.
The event also featured a special industry session with acclaimed Irish actor and screenwriter Mark O’Halloran, who generously gave his time to engage with students and share insights from his extensive career in film and television. Best known for his work as the writer of Adam & Paul and Garage, O’Halloran offered students a candid and valuable perspective on the realities of working in the Irish screen industries, from developing ideas and writing scripts to navigating the creative and professional challenges of the industry. The session was expertly chaired by lecturer Jenny Russell.
Mark’s contribution provided students with an invaluable opportunity to engage directly with an experienced industry professional and to gain a deeper understanding of the creative processes behind some of Ireland’s most recognised screen productions.
The visit marked the beginning of an exciting partnership between SETU and the Dublin International Film Festival, one of Ireland’s most prestigious film institutions, with a reputation that extends across Europe and internationally. The collaboration reflects SETU’s commitment to providing students with meaningful opportunities to engage with the creative industries, connect with leading practitioners and experience professional work beyond the classroom.
It was a fantastic day for us at SETU. The array of Irish talent on display was remarkable. Grainne and her team do incredible work, and we are hugely appreciative of their engagement with our students across the Department of Sport, Media and Marketing. The event left a lasting impression and will inspire the next generation of makers for years to come.
Ethna Quirke Programme Director of TV & Media Production at SETU
SETU extends its sincere thanks to Gráinne Humphreys, Director of the Dublin International Film Festival, and the entire DIFF team for their generosity, enthusiasm and commitment to engaging with students. Special thanks are also extended to Mark O’Halloran for sharing his time, expertise and industry experience so openly with the next generation of filmmakers, writers, producers and media professionals.
The success of the visit demonstrates the value of strong relationships between higher education and the creative industries. Bringing the work and voices of Ireland’s film community directly to students creates opportunities for inspiration, learning, networking and ambition — and sets the foundation for what promises to be a highly valuable partnership between SETU and the Dublin International Film Festival.
