O’Dowd applauds Young Innovators at Sentinus Science Fair

Education Minister John O'Dowd has applauded the schools from across the north taking part in the Sentinus Young Innovators Exhibition at the Ulster University.

One hundred and fifty projects are being showcased in the Sentinus Young Innovators Exhibition. The annual exhibition is a flagship event for Sentinus bringing together 215 schools and industry to celebrate the achievements of young people in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM).

Speaking as he visited the exhibition, the Minister said:

 “Every time I visit this exhibition I am hugely impressed by the very high standard of the projects on show and the enthusiasm and professionalism displayed by the pupils and their teachers, who have put in many hours of hard work to get to this point today.

 The promotion of STEM is a key priority for me and my Department and is a central part of the school curriculum.   In the 21st century, science and technology form a significant part of our everyday lives and are therefore essential tools for improving society and the economy.

 At least one third (71) of the schools here today are primary schools. Developing an interest in STEM at this age contributes greatly to the Department’s aim to embed STEM throughout the curriculum.”

As well as the exhibition and competition, the fair also brings together a number of workshops and shows covering a wide range of subjects including pyrotechnics, robotics and engineering.  

Notes to editors: 

1. The Department of Education’s ‘Education Works’ campaign promotes the value of education. This year’s campaign aims to ensure that parents have information on schooling and that they are aware of the steps they can take to ‘Get Involved’ and support their teenager in achieving good outcomes at school. Watch out for the ads on television, radio and outdoor locations. The campaign highlights the vital role families can play in helping children do well at school and improve their life chances. Visit nidirect for more information or watch the TV ad on the Department’s YouTube channel.
2. See photos from the Department of Education in our Flickr collection.
3. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 99 715 440, and your call will be returned.

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