From Monday 26 May to Thursday 29 May 2025, the Glasnevin Campus of Dublin City University, along with a vibrant online audience, played host to this annual gathering of learning, discussion, and connection.
The PPN/DCU Summer School has become a much-loved date in the diary for many community activists, volunteers, representatives, and members of the Secretariat. A collaboration between the Public Participation Networks (PPNs) of Dublin City, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, and Fingal, and the Office of Civic Engagement at DCU, the event continues to grow in energy, ambition, and reach. This year’s programme offered something for everyone, combining practical training, big ideas, and plenty of opportunity to share stories and inspiration.
A Packed Programme of Learning and Exchange
Over the course of four days, participants explored a wide range of topics, all carefully curated to support and empower community engagement across Dublin.
- Social Media Training: The week kicked off with a session from the DCU Communications team, on how to get the most from your social media presence. Expert trainers, Jane Last and Ger Shields, guided participants through the ever-changing landscape of platforms, tools, and content strategies. Whether you were a novice or looking to refresh your approach, these sessions had everyone buzzing with ideas.
- Panel Discussion with the Department of Rural and Community Development: A highlight of the week was the live panel discussion featuring Kelley Bermingham, Catherine O’Toole, Bill O’Dea, and Jake Ryan from the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD). This candid, generous conversation covered everything from local engagement to national strategy and gave attendees a valuable window into the heart of decision-making.
- An introduction to AI in Education and Training: AI might seem like something far removed from community work, but the session on Artificial Intelligence, with Chris Farrell, showed just how powerful these tools can be when used ethically and creatively. From writing draft PPN policy documents, to offering a pal to brainstorm with, AI can help small organisations and member groups, with limited resources.
- Energy and Sustainability with SEAI: We were thrilled to welcome speakers from SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) who shared updates, grant information, and tips on how communities can lead the way in sustainable energy. The session focused on achievable action and long-term impact and inspired many to think about energy differently.
- False Information and Disinformation: In an age of misinformation, how do we stay grounded in truth? This session explored the importance of media literacy and shared practical tools for navigating today’s complex information environment. Clear, thoughtful, and urgently relevant, with excellent facilitation from Dr Eileen Colloty (who has offered her time and expertise to work with the PPN on ongoing Equity, Diversity and Inclusivity (EDI) work).
- “Understanding and navigating the public policy eco-system in Ireland” with Professor Deiric OBroin was a very popular online session, with plenty to discuss in particular, the relative lack of power that a Strategic Policy Committee (SPC) holds, and how PPN reps can work within these parameters.
- And we finished the week with “Policy that works for all” with Dr Arpita Chakraborty which explored how groups of all sizes and experiences can influence change at local and national level.
- Closing Ceremony and Networking Lunch: The Summer School came to a warm and celebratory close with a shared lunch and certificate ceremony. It was a chance to pause, reflect, and connect with old friends and new faces. There was a real sense of community in the room—and many people stayed long after the official close, chatting over cups of tea and exchanging ideas for future projects.
Missed It? Don’t Worry
We know that not everyone could attend in real-time, but you don’t have to miss out. Slides and recordings from all sessions are available, and will be shared in the coming days. The resources are there for you to enjoy at your own pace.