****************************************************
The 12 finalist teams of the Hong Kong Student Science Project Competition today (June 2) showcased their scientific knowledge and innovative talent in front of the judging panel at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Maryknoll Fathers' School, with their project "Anti-bump Lock", was the champion of the invention category while S.P.H.R.C. Kung Yik She Secondary School, with their project "Anti-bacterial Chemicals (ABC)" was the champion of the category of investigation of a scientific phenomenon /application of a scientific theory.
In addition, three projects received awards under a special theme on Energy Source and Energy Saving which was newly introduced this year to reward projects with energy-saving potential.
Officiating at the award presentation ceremony, which was held immediately after the final judging, the Secretary for Commerce, Industry and Technology, Mr Joseph WP Wong, said he was very impressed by the creativity of young people and their concern to the environment.
"This year's competition is the ninth in the series and the response has been overwhelming ¡V with a record number of 122 teams from 66 local secondary schools participating," he said.
"The winning teams will join a visit and exchange programme overseas to broaden their exposure.
"They will also be invited to join The Hong Kong Youth Innovation Club jointly set up by the Innovation and Technology Commission and the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups for winners of various innovation and technology competitions in Hong Kong. The club provides regular exchange and learning opportunities for its members such as an inspiring sharing session with Prof Klaus von Klitzing, Nobel Laureate in Physics last year.
The Executive Director of The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups, Dr Rosanna Wong, said the competition provided the students with a relaxing atmosphere to learn about science.
"Working co-operatively, they can apply scientific theory creatively. They are free to explore and invent. This lays down a sound foundation on which scientific talent in Hong Kong can flourish,¡¨ Dr Wong said.
The Hong Kong Student Science Project Competition is jointly organised by the Innovation and Technology Commission, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups, the Education and Manpower Bureau and the Hong Kong Science Museum. It aims to enhance students' knowledge in science and technology; develop their creativity through innovative application and inspire their intellectual and career interest in science and technology.
The theme for this year's competition was "Harness Scientific Power - Stimulate Youth Innovation". Most of the finalist projects were related to the improvement of quality of life.
A brief description of the winning projects is in the Annex.
Details of the competition are available at www.hksspc.gov.hk
Ends/Saturday, June 2, 2007
Issued at HKT 16:57
NNNN
