The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin TD, has revealed that the winners of the 2025 BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) will travel to Japan later this year to present their projects at the highly anticipated Expo 2025 in Osaka. The six-month-long global event, which is expected to attract up to 30 million visitors, will provide the young innovators with a prestigious platform to showcase their work on the world stage.
In addition to the overall winner of the BTYSTE, one senior project from each of the remaining four categories will also have the opportunity to participate in this special event as part of Ireland’s programme at Expo 2025. The Tánaiste made the announcement while attending the BTYSTE, held at the RDS in Dublin, where he met with Mr. Norimasa Yoshida from Japan’s Embassy in Ireland.
The Tánaiste also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Professor Pat Guiry, Chair of the Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition. This MoU will strengthen Ireland’s collaboration with its embassies abroad and help develop additional International YSTE competitions, such as those already established in Kenya and Jordan. These initiatives will support Ireland’s educational efforts and inspire more young people, particularly girls, to pursue studies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Speaking at the event, Tánaiste Martin said: “Bringing the winners of this year’s BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition, along with other exceptional entrants, to Expo 2025 in Osaka will not only showcase the innovation and talent of Irish young people but will also allow them to interact with educators and leaders in science and technology from across the globe. This is an incredible opportunity for them to further their learning and explore new possibilities in these vital fields.”
He continued, “Japan is one of the world’s leading economies, with which we share not only economic and political ties but also deep cultural connections. 2025 will mark an exciting year for Ireland in Japan, with the opening of the new Ireland House in Tokyo and our participation in Expo 2025 in Osaka. This will be a pivotal moment in our bilateral partnership with Japan.”
The Tánaiste also highlighted the importance of the MoU signed on the day, which will expand the reach of the BTYSTE model globally. “The BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition plays a crucial role in encouraging young people to delve into areas of science and technology that are shaping the future. With our embassies in Kenya and Jordan leading local competitions, we are increasing the number of countries participating in this global initiative. This will open doors for young people, particularly girls, who may otherwise not have access to these fields.”
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) sponsoring the Science for Development special category award at the BTYSTE. The winners of this award will travel to The Gambia later in 2025 with Ireland’s partner, Self Help Africa, to further their learning and gain hands-on experience in sustainable development.
In addition to supporting the exhibition, the DFA will have a significant presence at the BTYSTE, with an Irish Aid stand dedicated to raising awareness about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For the first time, the Passport Service will also have a stand at the event, giving visitors a chance to learn about the science behind the Irish passport.
With the winners of the BTYSTE set to attend Expo 2025, Ireland is reinforcing its commitment to fostering innovation, encouraging youth engagement in STEM, and building international partnerships that will benefit future generations.