New €200,000 countywide training initiative launched in Carndonagh

Carndonagh’s Spraoi agus Spórt, in partnership with Donegal County Council, has officially launched TRASNACH, a new countywide training initiative aimed at empowering young people through cross-community learning and digital innovation.

Funded by the PEACEPLUS Programme and supported by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), the project is part of Donegal’s ambitious €7.6 million Local Community PEACEPLUS Action Plan.

TRASNACH focuses on developing skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM), while fostering inclusion, diversity, and cross-cultural understanding. Through hands-on workshops in digital creativity, engineering, and technology, participants will gain technical expertise and build meaningful connections across community divides.

The programme is one of 32 cross-community projects rolled out under Donegal’s Local Action Plan. A total investment of €200,000 has been allocated to this flagship initiative.

Speaking at the launch event in Carndonagh, Donegal Cathaoirleach Cllr Paul Canning said: “TRASNACH empowers Donegal’s youth with the skills and mindset needed for a tech-driven, inclusive future. Through innovation and collaboration, it will create lasting social impact and strengthen community cohesion.”

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Helen Nolan, CEO of Spraoi agus Spórt, spoke of the roots of the project.

“TRASNACH is a natural progression from our earlier work under PEACE IV. Through our Digital Creative Lab, we saw how digital tools could unite young people across community lines. With TRASNACH, we’re expanding access to creative STEAM education, especially for those in rural and underrepresented communities.”

The TRASNACH programme will support young people in developing critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills whilst fostering cross-community and cross-border relationships. The programme will run across all Donegal municipal districts and cross-border areas, with an expected 265 to 300 young participants.

“This launch is a celebration of our shared commitment to youth empowerment and rural regeneration,” Helen added.