Fifth Year Student Cliodhna Ward Attends BT Young Scientist and Technology National Finals with Life-Saving Research Project
Fifth Year student Cliodhna Ward from Our Lady’s Secondary School attended the national finals of the prestigious BT Young Scientist and Technology Competition from January 8th – 11th 2025 at the RDS, Dublin. Combining her passion for sports as an LGFA player with Aughnaullen Sarsfields and her dedicated role as a First Responder, Cliodhna has embarked on a project with the potential to save countless lives.
Cliodhna’s research focuses on the registration of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) across Ireland, and her findings reveal a startling statistic: only 17% of AEDs in the country are currently registered with the National Ambulance Service. This gap represents a critical shortfall in emergency response capabilities, potentially costing lives that could otherwise be saved through timely and effective access to these devices.
“30 seconds of your time could give someone 30 more years of theirs,” is the compelling message behind Cliodhna’s project. She aims to spotlight the simplicity and urgency of registering AEDs. Just 30 seconds is all it takes to register an AED, yet the impact could be life-altering. For someone experiencing cardiac arrest, the quick location and deployment of an AED can mean the difference between life and death, granting them the possibility of decades more with their loved ones.
Speaking about Cliodhna’s achievement and the importance of her work, Principal Mr. Kelly expressed the pride felt by the entire school community. “As a school, we were delighted to support Cliodhna in her journey to the BT Young Scientist and Technology Competition that was held last week. We are incredibly proud of Cliodhna and the wonderful work she has done so far. Her dedication to making a difference in people’s lives reflects her compassion, intelligence, and commitment to the care and welfare of others.
Photograph: Fifth Year student Cliodhna Ward pictured with school Principal Mr. Kelly
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