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The Commissioner for Innovation and Technology, Mr Eddy Chan, today (June 7) congratulated three Hong Kong students on their brilliant achievements at the 59th Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF)in Atlanta, Georgia, in the United States.
Officiating at the 59th Intel International Science and Engineering Fair Hong Kong Regional Awards Ceremony, Mr Chan presented the medals and certificates to secondary students Lau Tak-kin and Lau Tak-shing from Maryknoll Fathers' School. They won the second award in the "Team Projects" category with their invention "21st Century Miracle Lock".
With the same project, the two students won the champion of Hong Kong Students Science Project Competition last year, and qualified to represent Hong Kong at the 59th Intel International Science and Engineering Fair.
Mr Chan said, "As with their predecessors, Mr Chan Yik-hei and Mr Chan Ka-kin, two asteroids will be named after Lau Tak-kin and Lau Tak-shing. These remarkable achievements of Hong Kong students are most encouraging."
Another Form 4 secondary student, Mr Yu Kung-ho, won the special award presented by the United States Coast Guard for his project "Advanced Version Anti-drink Driving Device". His achievement was also praised at the ceremony.
"Society needs young talent to sustain development in innovation and technology. The Innovation and Technology Commission organises the Innovation Festival every year. Members of the public can learn about innovative technology through various activities, including exhibitions, seminars, workshops and competitions. The technological achievements of local universities and research organisations are also showcased to the public".
"Meanwhile, the ITC established the Hong Kong Youth Innovation Club in 2006 to recruit winners of various innovation and technology competitions as members. The club provides regular exchange and learning opportunities for them, to foster their knowledge in technology," Mr Chan added.
Mr Chan said that apart from the Government's efforts, the impetus of innovation and technology needs extensive involvement from non-government organisations.
The Hong Kong New Generation Cultural Association Science Innovation Centre, which nominated and led the Hong Kong students to this year's Intel ISEF, often organises science and invention competitions, enabling students to put their talents into practice.
"I believe these competitions can help identify more young scientists who can contribute to our society and our country," Mr Chan said.
First held in 1950, the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) has become the biggest international science project competition held annually in different cities in the United States. The Intel ISEF 2008 held in Atlanta, Georgia, in May, brought together over 1,500 secondary students from 51 countries, with over 1,000 research projects, to compete for different awards.
Ends/Saturday, June 7, 2008
Issued at HKT 16:01
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