St Mary’s University College was honoured to host the Annual Edmund Rice Schools Trust Lecture on Tuesday, 13th May 2025, in what proved to be a profoundly moving and impactful evening. This year’s keynote speaker was Dr David Hickey, world-renowned transplant surgeon, GAA legend, and now a passionate advocate for social justice through his work with the Gaza Paediatric Care Initiative (GPCI).

Held in the spirit of the Edmund Rice tradition and the charter values of compassion, human dignity and justice, the event drew a large and diverse audience. Academics, students, community members, public representatives, and GAA figures gathered in solidarity to hear Dr Hickey speak under the powerful theme, “Suffer Little Children to Come unto Me” (Matthew 19:14).

Dr Hickey’s address was both heartfelt and harrowing, shining a stark light on the suffering of children in Gaza, where the number of child amputees is now among the highest in the world. Drawing on sobering statistics, personal testimonies and his own medical experience, he highlighted the urgent work of the GPCI—a not-for-profit organisation founded in 2023 by Irish health professionals to support children injured in the conflict.

The evening included an engaging and emotional Q&A session, during which attendees expressed their solidarity and raised thoughtful questions about the role of healthcare, education and advocacy in global justice. Dr Hickey also reminded the audience of the transformative power of education in raising awareness and fostering compassion, making a compelling call to action for ongoing support of humanitarian efforts.

The lecture was very well attended, with notable guests including representatives from St Mary’s Board of Governors, local government, education leaders and sporting organisations. Refreshments beforehand provided space for networking and dialogue, contributing to the evening’s warm and communal atmosphere.

Admission to the event was free, with donations encouraged to support the Gaza Paediatric Care Initiative. The response from attendees was generous and heartfelt, reflecting the powerful impact of the evening’s message.

St Mary’s University College is pleased to partner with the Edmund Rice Schools Trust in hosting this annual lecture, and we extend our deepest thanks to Dr David Hickey for his inspirational contribution.