Four students represent NI in World Skill Competition in Korea

Four Northern Ireland students are currently competing with the best in the world at this year’s World Skills Competition being held in Seoul, South Korea.

As part of a 30 strong UK team Richard Craig, Londonderry, Plumbing; Alex Lockhart, Richhill, Commercial Wiring; Richard Rooney, Downpatrick, Carpentry; and Tracy Megoran, Downpatrick, Women’s Hairdressing will compete in the 36th World Skills Competition which runs from September 13-16.

Minister for Employment and Learning Dr Sean Farren, who met with some of the competitors before they flew out to Seoul, said: “I am delighted to see Northern Ireland so well represented as a region in the UK team for this event. I wish them every success and know that they will all endeavour to bring four gold medals back home.”

Ian Walters, Chief Executive of the Training and Employment also wished the competitors well. He said: “Success at this national level reflects the high standard of training which is delivered through our Further Education colleges and other training organisations, and also the calibre of the young people working towards NVQs in their chosen professions. As local ambassadors at this prestigious competition you are amongst the best in the world.”

The World Skills Competition is a biennial event in which 35 countries worldwide participate. During four days of gruelling competition, over 600 competitors showcase their outstanding technical skills in their respective trades.

The World Skills Competition aims to challenge young people, teachers, trainers and employers to achieve world-class standards of competence in commerce, services and industry and to raise the profile of vocational education and training.

UK competitors, including contestants from Northern Ireland were selected from the overall winners of recognised national competitions, having fought their way through regional and national competitions to compete on an international stage. (AMcE)