The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has launched its largest-ever college road safety education program, kicking off at University College Dublin’s Freshers Week.
The RSA team is visiting 23 third-level institutions nationwide, bringing interactive, engaging, and practical road safety experiences directly to students.
It marks the RSA’s first major Freshers Week initiative which aims to engage, inspire, and empower young adults to make safer choices on Ireland’s roads – both as drivers and as passengers.
Students will take part in immersive and hands-on activities that highlight the risks of drink and drug driving, tiredness, distraction, and not wearing a seatbelt.
Activities including drink and drug driving goggles – simulating the effects of impairment on judgment, coordination, and reaction times, VR Headsets – giving students a 360° view of the real-world consequences of dangerous driving and breathalyzer units – showing how easily people misjudge their alcohol levels.
“Young people are at the heart of Ireland’s road safety story,” said RSA Chief Executive Sam Waide.
“Through this new programme, we’re meeting students where they are – on campus, during Freshers Week – and giving them the tools, knowledge, and confidence to make safer choices.
“By combining immersive experiences with open conversations, we want to shift mindsets and build a culture where looking after yourself and your friends on the road becomes second nature. Every decision behind the wheel matters, and every student has the power to influence safer roads.”
