Student from Kinsale Community School studying Coding for Junior Cycle proudly participated in the "Cyberwise - Cybersecurity Shared Learning Day" event held today at O'Reilly Hall, UCD, on Thursday, April 25th as part of the programme for Computer Science Week.

Minister of State, Ossian Smyth met with KCS students, Emily Bertoletti, Aisling Lynch, Oscar Green, Lilly Norman, Conor Galvin, Billy Dennehy, David Lynch, Matthew Coholan, Eoin Condon, Oran Sheehy, Giacomo Chichizola, Liam Riordan and Dara O’Shea, gaining valuable insights into their Cyberwise experiences and achievements. Minister Smyth highlighted the importance of cyber security in today's digital age and emphasised the role of education in fostering a secure online environment for all.

Dr. Rachel Farrell from UCD introduced Minister Smyth, who officially inaugurated the event. Dr. Farrell provided updates on several initiatives:

DECC funded Cybersecurity Junior Cycle Short Course and Cyberwise Outreach Initiatives
SFI funded Busting Gender Bias in Computer Science and Cybersecurity
DoFA funded Shared Island Civic Fund project focusing on cybersecurity and environmental resilience education
COGG funded Gaeilge resources

Mark Lane from TUD introduced the Zero Days Capture the Flag Challenge cybersecurity competition that our students eagerly participated in. Coding teachers, Ms. Cooper and Mr. Bowen attended a special "A.I. in My Life TY Module" was facilitated by the ADAPT Centre Team, including Dr. Rob Brenndan, Laura Grehan, Tijana Milosevic, and Faye Murphy.

It was an enriching experience for everyone involved. Our students and teachers gained valuable insights into cybersecurity, engaged with experts in the field, and showcased their talents on this esteemed platform. Kinsale Community School is proud of our participation and looks forward to more such opportunities with UCD in the future.