Bright minds shine at science show

FOR sheer self-confidence and raw imagination it would be hard to beat the performance of Irish students whose work goes on show today at the annual Young Scientist Exhibition.

This year a all time record number of 910 projects were submitted by 2,583 students from 30 counties. The cream, so to speak, of 480 will be on display this week at the RDS, representing the work of more than 1,000 pupils.

It is a fascinating insight into the Irish education system that girls continue to dominate the world’s longest running science exhibition, outnumbering boys by a ratio of three to two. Given the low number of females taking up careers in science this must be taken as a positive sign.

Vying for the coveted title of Esat BT Young Scientist of the Year, the winners will go on to represent Ireland at European level.

As a showcase for the shining talent and flair of Ireland’s brightest young minds, the 38th exhibition is a loud accolade for the achievement of pupils in schools the length and breath of the country.

It should not be missed.