We visited the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition again this year, getting the chance to chat to some of the country’s brightest students. 

There were project posters stretching to all corners of the main hall at the RDS, filled with excited participants waiting for their visit from the judging panel.

Hugh Murtagh from Coláiste Mhuire in Westmeath took us through his A-Ok project – a discreet wristband that students with autism can wear to let their teacher know if they’re feeling overwhelmed at school.

“I have autism and I know just how hard it is to try and focus in class when you feel overwhelmed. I want to try and help people like me and people who also have autism,” he said.

We also learned about an eco-powered dollhouse with the potential to teach children about climate action, how mental health can be impacted by climate change, and whether genetics affects how clever a dog breed is.

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Words by Lisa Ardill