Merlyn Mind has been named the winner of Ulster University’s AI in Education Awards – Ethical Use of AI in Education for its pioneering classroom solution, Merlyn Origin. The recognition follows a successful pilot program in Irish classrooms, where teachers face growing challenges balancing diverse learner needs, curriculum reform, administrative demands, and expectations for inclusive and differentiated instruction.
While education technology has advanced, many tools remain fragmented, require significant technical expertise, or divert teachers’ attention from their students. Merlyn Origin addresses these issues head-on. Designed specifically for educators, the AI-powered, voice-enabled assistant is embedded in classroom environments, allowing teachers to control digital content and technology hands-free. By reducing administrative and cognitive load, Merlyn keeps teachers present and engaged with learners, supporting inclusive teaching practices and improving outcomes for students with additional needs.
National Conference on Generative AI in Education August 2025
The pilot was developed collaboratively with school leaders, teachers, and support services to align with national curriculum priorities and emerging policy frameworks, including the EU AI Act. Feedback from participating educators highlights significant time savings, improved digital confidence, and smoother transitions between teaching tasks—particularly in schools with limited IT support.
“This award reflects Merlyn Mind’s commitment to ethical, human-centred AI,” said Ian Nairn, President of C-Learning. “We’re proud to support teachers in creating more inclusive and engaging classrooms while ensuring responsible AI adoption.”
The success of the pilot not only demonstrates the transformative potential of AI in education but also underscores Ireland’s growing leadership in shaping responsible innovation. Merlyn Mind is now advancing plans to establish its European headquarters in Ireland, reinforcing the country’s position at the forefront of sustainable and scalable education technology.
With this recognition from Ulster University, Merlyn Mind continues its mission to empower educators, reduce barriers to technology, and create classrooms where teachers can focus on what matters most: their students.
About Merlyn Mind
Merlyn Mind is a pioneering AI company dedicated to building solutions that empower educators and enhance learning environments. Its flagship product, Merlyn Origin, brings intelligent, voice-enabled assistance to classrooms, helping teachers seamlessly integrate technology without sacrificing student engagement.