Students bid for top Young Scientist prize

Callum Lavery

NEARLY 50 Dublin schools have reached the final of this year’s BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE).

A total of 105 projects from 49 Dublin schools will join the 550 projects from across the country on show at this year’s exhibition, running from January 9-12 at the RDS.

Portmarnock Community School, Skerries Community College and overall winner of the award in 2016, Loreto Balbriggan, are among the Northside schools entered.

The projects will cover four categories: Technology, Biological and Ecological, Social and Behavioural Sciences, and Chemical, Physical and Mathematical Sciences.

The exhibition will be entering its 56th year and invites secondary schools across Ireland to take part.

Minister for Education and Skills, Joe McHugh TD said he was delighted to see the high number of students taking part in this year’s event.

“I am heartened and encouraged by the number of students and schools that put forward such innovative and pioneering projects for the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition,” said Minister McHugh.

“Events such as this are so important as they allow students across Ireland to channel their talents and interests into projects and subjects which hold significant importance to them.

“My Department continues to highlight the importance of STEM education, especially at a young age, so when the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition starts, we love to see all the bright minds of STEM putting forward suggestions on how to make the world a better place.”

Founded in 1963, the BTYSTE has grown from a simple science fair to become one the most highly regarded platforms for encouraging young people into the scientific field.

As well as the 550 shortlisted student projects on display each year, there will be four exhibition halls open to the public featuring a primary science section, a cutting edge science and technology-based exhibits and entertainment, making it a thrilling event for those who enter and for visitors alike.

Managing Director of BT Ireland Shay Walsh said the students in this year’s exhibition are among the most talented yet.

“Each year, we endeavour to make this exhibition better than ever before and I can guarantee that 2019 is no exception,” said Mr Walsh.

“The projects themselves are the main act, and once again, the creativity and talent of these young people will amaze visitors.

“As well as that there’ll be some spectacular science shows, interactive technology demonstrations, not to mention the chance to spot a few very familiar faces.

“It’s an ideal event for families with something for everyone and we look forward to welcoming all our visitors in January.”

The exhibition offers one of the most prestigious awards for participants, with a significant prize fund and the BTYSTE perpetual trophy up for grabs. A total of 140 other prizes for individuals, groups and teachers are also available.

The overall winner of the competition will represent Ireland on the global stage at the European Union Contest for Young Scientists in Bulgaria in September 2019.

The event is open to the public from January 10-12 from 9.30am to 5.30pm. For tickets and more information, visit www.btyoungscientist.com