Innovation 2121 aims to inspire young people to help shape Northern Ireland’s next 100 years.

by Startacus Admin
New initiative from Young Enterprise NI and the Department of Education aims to inspire future innovation and creativity from Northern Ireland's young people.
Creativity and innovation are at the core of an interesting new initiative which has just been launched by the Department of Education and Young Enterprise NI, with the aim of challenging students to shape Northern Ireland’s next 100 years.
Innovation 2121 will see post-primary school students developing innovative ideas that could contribute to economic growth and the creation of jobs and will be displayed in The Museum of Innovation at Ulster Transport Museum in the year 2121.
The top ideas will be presented in a Dragon’s Den-style competition with prizes on offer to the winning schools.
Education Minister, Michelle McIlveen MLA said, “The aim of the Innovation 2121 Project, funded by my Department, is to encourage entrepreneurial spirit amongst older post-primary pupils and to develop critical skills for the 21st century such as design, research and being able to think outside the box.
“The project is one part of wider events to mark the centenary of Northern Ireland to encourage reflection on the past, including achievements and innovations, as well as providing additional learning experiences and inspiring future innovation.”
Carol Fitzsimons MBE, CEO of Young Enterprise said, “Innovation is a critical skill that we must nurture in our young people to build our future economy. Working with the Department of Education to provide these resources and support to schools, we will be helping students to develop these important cross-curricular skills.
“The 10X Economic Vision for Northern Ireland highlights innovation across clusters including digital, ICT, creative industries, agri-tech, fintech, and advanced manufacturing, as key to our future success. This programme will ensure young people are equipped to lead this innovation into the future.”
A fab initiative and we can’t wait to see the creative and innovative ideas that emerge as a result!
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Published on: 21st January 2022
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