Ross congratulates young scientists

Junior Minister Alastair Ross today offered his congratulations to pupils from schools across Northern Ireland who have entered the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) 2017.

Junior Minister Alastair Ross pictured with Maeve Stillman from St Mary's College in Londonderry, Daniel Stewart from Ballyclare High school and Peter Morris, Head of Operations, BT in Northern Ireland.

Junior Minister Ross was speaking at a reception in Parliament Buildings for the students and their teachers. A total of 50 projects from 18 schools across Northern Ireland submitted entries with 23 of the projects qualifying for the finals at the RDS in Dublin in January 2017.

Alastair Ross said: “The BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition is an established annual event which has been running for over 50 years. It is recognised throughout Europe as one of the main science exhibitions of its type and provides young people from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland the opportunity to meet, learn from each other and share their enthusiasm for STEM subjects – science, technology, engineering and maths.

“STEM subjects are some of the most important taught in schools. They have an increasing relevance and importance in the world of business so it is vital that we continue to promote and incentivise our young people to study science, technology, engineering and maths. This will ensure we have the talent to grow the Northern Ireland economy and thrive in the global market.”

Junior Minister Ross concluded: “This competition is a celebration of our local talent and a platform for young people to exhibit their projects and skills. I congratulate all the young people who have submitted an entry to this year’s competition and the commitment and dedication of their teachers for their encouragement and support. I would also like to commend BT for their continued support for the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition.”

Peter Morris, Head of Operations, BT in Northern Ireland said: “Science and technology are advancing our economy, culture and society, and for more than five decades the BT Young Scientist & Technology has proven to have an unique formula that excites and engages young students in these critical skills. In these rapidly changing times, creative and innovative ideas to create a better world have never been as important, and we are proud of the young Northern Ireland students who have entered the exhibition and inspired us all with their work.”

The BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) competition is open to all post-primary students aged 12 – 19 from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. It is an educational initiative designed to give schools the opportunity to increase their engagement in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects.

Notes to editors: 

1. The exhibition takes place from 11 to 14 January 2017 at the RDS in Dublin. Additional information is available on their website http://btyoungscientist.com/
2. Media enquiries to TEO Press Office on 028 9037 8201. Out of office hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number on 07623 974 383 and your call will be returned.

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