BT Ireland is encouraging local students aged 12 to 19 years to turn their creativity into project entries for next year's Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE ). The deadline for applications is October 2 2023 and the event takes place in Dublin from January 10 to 13 2024.
More than two thirds (67 per cent ) of second level students are interested in learning more about pursuing a career in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics ), according to a study of 500 secondary school students in Ireland. Conducted by BT Ireland, it examined their attitudes towards STEM as well as the original of their best ideas.
The study revealed that:
67 per cent of secondary school students want to learn more about pursuing a career in STEM in Ireland
51 per cent come up with their best ideas after talking to friends, 34 per cent do so in bed, and 19 per cent in the shower
58 per cent of parents of secondary school students say their children have been nervous/hesitant to share their ideas with their classmates/friends
35 per cent of parents say the greatest challenge their children face when coming up with ideas is insufficient knowledge on how to turn their ideas into reality
While almost half (48 per cent ) of students have considered a career in STEM, more specifically, science, (44 per cent ), engineering (38 per cent ), technology (24 per cent ), and mathematics (16 per cent ) others are held back from exploring it further. Not thinking they are smart enough (33 per cent ), a lack of confidence (18 per cent ) and not enough information on the benefits of a career in STEM (18 per cent ) are among the most common reasons for this.
The BTYSTE gives entrants more exposure to STEM and the chance to demonstrate their creativity. The event also provides students with an opportunity to further develop critical skills such as collaboration, research and analysis and problem solving that will be valuable in all walks of life.
The exhibition, which annually shines a light on STEM research and innovation, will showcase project entries from students in categories such as technology, social and behavioural science, biological and ecological science, chemical, physical, and mathematical science, as well as in a new category being introduced for the 60th BTYSTE, health and wellbeing. This category aims to promote research and innovation in areas related to human health, medical advancements, nutrition, exercise, and overall wellbeing. Students with an idea for a project in any of these areas are encouraged to apply for one of the leading school STEM exhibitions in Europe.
There are more than 200 prizes to be won and there is a prize fund of €50,000 for next year's competition. Prizes are awarded in all five categories and age groups, including the overall BT Young Scientist & Technologist of the Year Award, worth €7,500, which will see the winners go on to represent Ireland at the prestigious European Union Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS ). Ireland has a strong record of taking home the first prize at the EUCYS, with 17 wins over the past 33 years.
