Teams of up to five pupils were challenged to identify an environmental issue, develop a practical solution, and present it creatively. Erne Integrated College pupils Emilia, Amina, Ashton, Ella and Patrycia impressed judges with their concept for solar-powered windows using transparent photovoltaic cells to generate clean, renewable energy whilst still allowing light into buildings. As winners, the team won a visit to W5 for their class, giving pupils a further opportunity to explore science, innovation and sustainability in action.

The competition was part of BITC’s Generation Green Schools pilot programme, an initiative funded by SSE Airtricity through the Generation Green Community Fund, which helps pupils explore sustainability themes, build green skills and gain insight into future career opportunities in the green economy by connecting pupils with business volunteers, giving them direct insight into real careers and inspiring them to consider future opportunities in the green economy.

In their entry, the Erne Integrated College team explained that replacing conventional windows with solar alternatives could cut carbon emissions, reduce energy waste and help turn homes, schools and offices into part of the climate solution. Their entry demonstrated strong understanding of climate issues, creative thinking and practical problem-solving, highlighting how young people can help shape a cleaner, more energy-efficient future for Northern Ireland.

Following their win, the pupils had the opportunity to meet Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir and ask him their pressing questions about environmental issues and Northern Ireland’s green future.

A ministerial lunch to mark the completion of the pilot programme brought together Darron McLaughlin, Principal of Erne Integrated College; Minister Andrew Muir; senior representatives from business and the Department for Communities and Economy; and educators from host school Breda Academy in Belfast.

Discussion focussed on the action needed to accelerate green skills development and ensure all young people have access to future-focused career pathways, pupils had the chance to meet the Minister and ask their own questions about environmental challenges and solutions.

Reflecting on the programme’s success, Dr Lisa McIlvenna, Managing Director, Business in the Community Northern Ireland, said: “If we want to build a more sustainable future and economy, we need to help young people understand where green careers exist, why they matter and how they can see themselves in them. Business in the Community is uniquely placed to bring schools and business together to develop green skills for the future workforce.”

Minister Andrew Muir, Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, said: “Equipping young people with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to play their part in the transition to a low carbon economy is vital. Generation Green Schools is a strong example of how collaboration between education and industry can help inspire the next generation and open up greater awareness of the career opportunities that a greener economy can offer.”

Stephen Gallagher, Managing Director, SSE Airtricity, said: “Through the Generation Green Community Fund, we are committed to supporting communities to play an active role in the transition to a more sustainable future.

“Generation Green Schools is a strong example of how that support can empower young people with the knowledge and confidence to engage with sustainability and better understand the opportunities available to them. Programmes like this show the important role collaboration can play in building the skills needed for the future.”

Darron McLaughlin, Principal of Erne Integrated College, said: “We are incredibly proud of Emilia, Amina, Ashton, Ella and Patrycia for winning the Generation Green Schools competition. Their solar windows idea showed real creativity, teamwork and a strong understanding of how innovation can help address environmental challenges.

“Generation Green Schools has given our pupils valuable opportunities to engage with sustainability in a practical way, whilst also helping them understand the range of careers that exist within the green economy. Experiences like this can play an important role in building confidence, broadening ambition and inspiring young people to think differently about their future.”

Find out more at www.bitcni.org.uk/greenschools.