Cork Students Shine at BT Young Scientist Exhibition with Record Wins

Cork’s brightest young minds have once again proven their mettle on the national stage, leaving an indelible mark at this year’s BT Young Scientist and Technologist Exhibition (BTYSE). With a remarkable array of awards and accolades, these students have demonstrated their commitment to innovation, creativity, and tackling real-world challenges.

While a trio of sisters from Kerry took home the overall title, the spotlight also shone on Tomás Markey from St Brogan’s College in Bandon. Tomás clinched the coveted individual BT Young Scientist and Technologist award, earning him the prospect to represent Ireland at the upcoming World Expo in Osaka, Japan. His groundbreaking project focused on developing a method to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere—a timely and innovative solution in the global fight against climate change.

Tomás wasn’t the only standout from St Brogan’s. The school celebrated multiple victories, including his win of the Analog Devices Technology Award. Other students, such as Caoimhe Ryan, Ella O’Driscoll, and Tadhg Óg O’Donovan, also made waves by securing second place in the Senior Group Social and Behavioural Sciences category with their project on electoral systems.

The Best School ROI Award at this year’s BT Young Scientist and Technologist exhibition was presented by NAPD president Anton O’mahony to Shannen Foley on behalf of St Mary’s Secondary School in Macroom. Photo: Fennell Photography

Gillian Coughlan, a Fianna Fáil councillor and chairperson of the Cork Education and Training Board, expressed her pride in being part of the students’ journey. “There was, by all accounts, a really high standard of entry,” she said.”it bodes well for the future of our country that the brains of the country are focused on the issues and challenges facing our society.”

Meanwhile, St Mary’s Secondary School in Macroom was crowned the Best Overall School in the Republic of Ireland. Arlene O’Donoghue, a teacher at the school, shared her excitement: “We are absolutely delighted. It’s such an amazing achievement and great to get the recognition they richly deserve. They work so hard.”

Celebrations reverberated across Cork as students from schools like Coláiste Treasa in Kanturk, Kinsale Community School, Coláiste an Phiarsaigh in Glanmire, Coláiste Choilm in Ballincollig, Regina Mundi College in Douglas, and St Mary’s Secondary School in Mallow collected their well-deserved awards. The event, held at the RDS in Dublin, was a testament to the talent, dedication, and ingenuity of Ireland’s youth.

As st Brogan’s principal Helen Cadogan put it, the school has a “big festivity” planned. “We’re really looking forward to it,” she said,capturing the joy and pride felt by educators and students alike.

This year’s BTYSE not only highlighted the brilliance of Cork’s students but also underscored the importance of nurturing young talent to address the pressing challenges of our time. The achievements of these young innovators serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the future.

Tomás Markey: A Young Innovator Tackling global Water Challenges

in a world grappling with pressing environmental and social issues, young minds like tomás Markey are proving that innovation knows no age.The award-winning young scientist from St. Brogan’s College in Bandon, Cork, recently made waves at the BT Young Scientist and Technologist Exhibition (BTYSE) with his groundbreaking project—a low-cost, lasting water filtration system. His work not only highlights the importance of nurturing young talent but also underscores the potential of science and technology to address global challenges.

From Inspiration to Innovation: Tomás’s Journey

tomás’s journey began with a simple yet powerful question: How can we provide clean water to communities in need? “I was inspired by the global water crisis,” he shared. “Even in Ireland, some communities face challenges accessing clean water. I wanted to create something practical and affordable that could make a real difference.”

His solution? A water filtration system crafted from locally sourced materials like activated charcoal, sand, and specific types of clay. The project wasn’t without its hurdles. “The biggest challenge was finding the right combination of materials that could effectively filter water without being too expensive or difficult to source,” Tomás explained. Months of trial and error, coupled with unwavering support from his teachers and family, eventually led to a design that met his goals.

Presenting at BTYSE: A Proud Moment

Presenting his project at the BTYSE was a defining moment for tomás. “It was surreal,” he recalled. “At first, it was nerve-wracking, but once I started talking about my project and saw the interest from judges and visitors, I felt really proud.” His hard work paid off when he received an award, a validation of his dedication and a motivator to continue pushing boundaries.

What’s Next for Tomás?

Tomás’s ambitions don’t stop at water filtration.“I’m already thinking about how to improve the system and make it scalable for larger communities,” he said. Beyond this, he’s eager to explore renewable energy and sustainability projects. “Science and technology are such exciting fields, and there’s so much potential to make a positive impact,” he added.

advice for Aspiring Young Scientists

For young people interested in science and technology, Tomás offers simple yet profound advice: “Start small and focus on something you’re genuinely curious about. Don’t be afraid to experiment and learn from yoru mistakes. Passion and persistence are key.”

Why Young Innovators Matter

Tomás’s story is a testament to the power of youthful ingenuity. By addressing critical issues like water scarcity, he’s not only solving problems but also inspiring others to think creatively and act boldly. As the world faces increasingly complex challenges, nurturing young talent like Tomás is more vital than ever. His work reminds us that innovation, no matter how small it starts, has the potential to create a brighter, more sustainable future for all.

Tomás Markey presenting his award-winning water filtration project at the BT Young scientist and Technologist Exhibition.

“Science and technology are such exciting fields, and there’s so much potential to make a positive impact.”

— Tomás Markey

Tomás Markey’s journey is a shining example of how curiosity, hard work, and a desire to make a difference can lead to extraordinary achievements. As he continues to innovate and inspire, the future of science and technology looks brighter than ever.

Unlocking the Power of Curiosity: A Journey into Science and Innovation

Curiosity is the spark that ignites innovation. It’s the driving force behind every groundbreaking discovery and the foundation of lifelong learning. For Tomás Markey, a young innovator with a passion for science, curiosity has been the compass guiding his journey. His story is a testament to the transformative power of asking questions, embracing mistakes, and collaborating with others to unlock new possibilities.

The Power of Teamwork and Learning

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes—that’s how you learn,” Tomás emphasizes.He believes that collaboration is key to unlocking fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. “working with others can open up new ways of thinking,” he adds. This mindset has not only shaped his approach to problem-solving but also fueled his ambition to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

From Passion to Purpose

Tomás’s journey into science and technology began with a simple yet profound curiosity.His participation in the BTYSE (a prestigious science competition) was a turning point, solidifying his passion for innovation. “This experience has shown me that even young people can make a difference,” he says. Inspired by the potential to create meaningful change, Tomás now aspires to study engineering or environmental science in college.

His ultimate goal? To work on projects that address global issues like climate change and resource scarcity. “I’m excited to see where this journey takes me,” he shares with a sense of optimism and determination.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Tomás’s story is more than just a personal triumph; it’s a call to action for young innovators everywhere. His dedication and passion serve as a reminder that age is no barrier to making an impact. “The BTYSE has shown me that even young people can make a difference,” he reiterates, highlighting the importance of empowering the next generation to dream big and take bold steps toward their goals.

“Your passion and dedication are truly inspiring, and we can’t wait to see what you accomplish next.”

As Tomás looks to the future, his enthusiasm for science and innovation remains unwavering. His journey is a powerful reminder that curiosity, coupled with collaboration and perseverance, can lead to extraordinary achievements.

Key Takeaways

• Embrace curiosity and don’t shy away from asking questions or making mistakes.
• Collaboration can unlock new perspectives and innovative solutions.
• Young people have the power to make a meaningful impact on global challenges.
• Pursuing a career in science or technology can lead to transformative opportunities.

Tomás Markey’s story is a beacon of inspiration for anyone looking to turn their passion into purpose. By fostering curiosity and embracing teamwork,we can all contribute to a brighter,more innovative future.

How can individuals foster collaboration to effectively solve real-world problems?

Borating with others to solve real-world problems.

The spark of Curiosity: Tomás’s Early Interest in Science

Tomás’s fascination with science began at an early age.“I’ve always been curious about how things work,” he said. “Whether it was taking apart gadgets or experimenting with diffrent materials, I loved figuring out the ‘why’ behind everything.” This innate curiosity laid the foundation for his later achievements, including his award-winning water filtration project at the BT Young Scientist and Technologist Exhibition (BTYSE).

Collaboration and Learning from Mistakes

Tomás’s journey wasn’t a solitary one. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and mentorship in his success.“My teachers and family were incredibly supportive,” he shared. “They encouraged me to keep experimenting, even when things didn’t work out.” Learning from mistakes, he said, is crucial. “Every failure is a lesson.It’s about figuring out what went wrong and how to improve.”

Addressing Global Challenges: The Water Filtration project

Tomás’s project focused on designing a low-cost, enduring water filtration system. “Access to clean water is a global issue,” he explained. “I wanted to create something that could be easily replicated in communities facing water scarcity.” Using locally sourced materials like activated charcoal,sand,and clay,he developed a system that effectively filters water while remaining affordable and scalable.

The Future of Innovation: Inspiring Others

Tomás’s achievements have not only validated his hard work but also inspired others to pursue science and innovation. “Young minds have the power to create meaningful change,” he said. “It’s about starting with a problem you care about and then working tirelessly to find a solution.” His story serves as a reminder that innovation, driven by curiosity and collaboration, can address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

“Curiosity is the foundation of innovation. It’s about asking questions, experimenting, and never being afraid to fail.”

— Tomás Markey

why Curiosity Matters: nurturing Young Talent

As the world faces complex challenges, nurturing young talent like Tomás is essential. His journey highlights the importance of fostering curiosity, providing mentorship, and creating opportunities for young innovators to explore and experiment. By empowering the next generation of scientists and technologists, we pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future.

Tomás Markey’s story is a shining example of how curiosity, collaboration, and perseverance can lead to remarkable achievements. As he continues to innovate and inspire, the future of science and technology looks more promising than ever.