Science for Development Award 2015

Megan Duffy and Zoe McGirr from Oakgrove Integrated College, Derry, win Science for Development Award the 2015 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition

Minister for Development, Trade Promotion, and North South Co-operation, Seán Sherlock, TD, presented the ‘Science for Development’ award at this years’ BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition at a special ceremony at the RDS this evening. 

The award is given in collaboration with Irish Aid WorldWise Global Schools and Self Help Africa.

Minister Sherlock presented the award to Megan Duffy and Zoe McGirr, from Oakgrove Integrated College, Derry, for their project on a Seed Harvesting Kit for Subsistence Farmers.

Speaking from the RDS this evening, Minister Sherlock said:

“I want to congratulate Megan and Zoe on their successful project and I wish them well for the future. Their project typifies the expertise and attention to detail that I encountered during my visit of the schools participating in every sector.

“I was really inspired by meeting so many students during my tour of the exhibition this evening. It’s so wonderful to see young people passionately dedicating their time, energy and scientific knowledge to question, explore, and examine how to improve the lives of the most vulnerable.

“This in turns creates a fairer, more just and equal world; all of which are key goals of Irish Aid, the Government’s programme for overseas assistance. Scientific and technological know-how and innovation as well as creativity are vital for sustainable development.

“I also pay tribute to the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition, which for years has played an integral role in encouraging Ireland’s young people to realise their full scientific potential for the last 51 years.”

Notes to editors: 

• Photos of the award presentation will be issued by Maxwells Photography.

• Irish Aid is the Government’s overseas assistance programme. It is managed by the Development Cooperation Division of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. For further information see www.irishaid.ie

• Irish Aid WorldWise Global Schools and Gorta-Self Help Africa held interactive information stands at the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition this year.

• Irish Aid WorldWise Global Schools is the national programme of support for Development Education at post-primary level.  It is a one-stop-shop of funding, resources and guidance for post-primary schools to engage in Development Education.  For more information see www.worldwiseschools.ie and for more information on Gorta-Self Help Africa go to www.selfhelpafrica.org