merrion street

The winners of the Irish Aid/ Self-Help Africa ‘Science for Development’ Award at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2013 are Fergus Jayes, Darragh O’Donovan and Ciarán Crowley students from Clonakilty Community College, for their project on the design and development of an improved solar fridge.  Minister for Trade and Development Joe Costello, T.D., presented the award this evening at a ceremony in the RDS. The ‘Science for Development’ Award encourages students to harness the power of science to benefit developing countries. The award is sponsored by Irish Aid and Self Help Africa.  Minister Costello said: “I am delighted to present the Irish Aid “Science for Development” award to this innovative and exciting project which designed, built and tested an improved solar fridge for food preservation in developing countries. This is made from everyday materials which use evaporation to cool food stuffs.  “For almost 50 years, the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition has encouraged Irish students to realise their potential as innovators and inventors. I was very encouraged during my visit to the exhibition today to see that so many students have used their talent and creativity to harness the power of science to benefit communities in the developing world. “The students of today are the leaders and entrepreneurs of tomorrow. In order to further stimulate debate among students and raise understanding of the challenges facing families in the developing world, Irish Aid has launched a new programme of engagement with secondary schools, WorldWise Global Schools. I look forward to meeting students over the coming year and hearing their views on international development.” The winners of the Irish Aid ‘Science for Development’ award will have an opportunity later this year to travel to a developing country to test their project in field.  This visit will be supported by Irish Aid and Self Help Africa.   Irish Aid hosted workshops, drumming lessons and an information stand at the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition to inform teachers, students and the public about the impact Ireland’s development programme is making on the ground.