Image L-R: Laura Delaney - Macdonagh Junction, Jack Dooley - St. Kieran's College, Marion Acreman - Macdonagh Junction, Rosie Dunne - SEP Co Ordinator, Cian Holohan - St. Kieran's College, John Mulcahy - Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny

The Local Enterprise Office is delighted to announce that students from secondary schools all across Kilkenny will be participating in Student Enterprise Programme Christmas Markets at MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre over the coming weeks. Student Markets will run from 12 noon on Thursday 30th November, Thursday 7th & 14th December and on Thursday 18th Jan.

Enterprising students, together with their teachers, are currently busy in schools around the County preparing to attend this year’s student markets with over 50 stands already booked across four event dates.

The Student Enterprise Programme Christmas Markets are a fantastic opportunity for students to gain valuable real-world experience and learn about the benefits and challenges of running a small business. 

Jack Dooley and Cian Holohan from St. Kieran's College, 3rd Place Intermediate Level Award Winners at the 2022/23 National Awards with their business HD Horseshoe Design

On hearing of the initiative, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Michael Doyle, said:  "I encourage families, friends and the wider community to drop into MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre to support these young aspiring entrepreneurs. This initiative not only gives students the chance to showcase their skills and creativity, but also provides members of the public with an opportunity to source creative and unique Christmas gifts, including handmade crafts, tasty treats and much more".

Speaking about the initiative, John Mulcahy, Business Advisor at Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny said “We are delighted to see so many students participating this year and showcasing their entrepreneurial skills and we would like to extend our sincere thanks to the team at MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre for their continued support of these talented and ambitious Student Enterprise Programme participants."

Jack Dooley and Cian Holohan from St. Kieran's College

For more information about the Student Enterprise Programme, please visit our website at localenterprise.ie/kilkenny