Education Minister celebrates design and technology work

The Education Minister has celebrated young people’s design and technology talents at an exhibition in the Waterfoot Hotel, Derry.

The Minister, Caitríona Ruane, visited the Western Education and Library Board’s (WELB) technology and design exhibition, viewed coursework and gave out prizes to pupils from a number of schools in the WELB area.

Speaking at the event, the Minister said: “This event is a tribute to the talent, enthusiasm and creativity of our young people and is a real credit to them. Science and technology have a key part to play in our economy, the environment and our everyday lives and their importance is increasing.

“Design and technology courses offer young people the opportunity to get involved in design activities and to build on their problem solving and creativity skills. This hands-on approach can be very challenging and fun for young people.

“I want to congratulate all our young people on the high standards achieved in this year’s technology and design examinations. It demonstrates the commitment of both teachers and students and reassures me that the future is in good hands. The exhibition of coursework that I have seen today is clear evidence of that commitment and innovation.”

Technology and design is one of the subjects which fall within the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) agenda. The Department of Education, in conjunction with the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL), has commissioned an independent review of STEM to produce a strategy to enhance pupil uptake of STEM subjects and to identify better linkages between Business, Schools, Further Education and Higher Education.

The Minister continued: “My Department and DEL keenly await the publication of the STEM Review. The importance of STEM in today’s economic climate cannot be understated. Schools that prioritise STEM, in both their curriculum and extra-curricular activities, will help us to create a workforce that can fill skills gaps in society, helping to drive our economy forward in these difficult times.”

After visiting the WELB exhibition, the Minister met with students from 'Hands That Talk' and gave out certificates in sign language to over 40 students.

The Minister said: “The sign language courses offered by 'Hands That Talk', have provided the opportunity to introduce all students to the sign language profession. Many of those who have achieved today will go on to become interpreters and offer a valuable resource to those with hearing difficulties.”

Notes to Editors:

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