Coding challenge gets kids 'tech industry ready'

Winners have been announced for the 2022 Premier’s Coding Challenge.

The challenge is an annual, statewide initiative for all Queensland students from Years 3 to 10. This year, 18 bright young minds from around Queensland have been recognised for skills that will set them up for future STEM-related jobs.

Minister for Education Grace Grace presented certificates to winners on behalf of Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk at an award ceremony at the Queensland University of Technology’s Gardens Point campus.

Grace said the judges were extremely impressed with this year’s entrants.

“The judges indicated the coding skills of the high school age winners are ‘tech industry ready’ right now,” she said.

“This is great news and reflects well on the Palaszczuk government’s push to increase STEM education and skills across all Queensland schools.

“Award-winning students, who could enter as individuals or in pairs, shared in a $10,000 total prize pool, with each student receiving a robotics or electronics kit.

“This year the students were challenged to explore the theme of digital careers with a focus on how digital technologies are more important than ever to our everyday lives.

“Entrants were required to develop an app, game, animation or website, and submit a short video showcase.

“I’m proud to see students using digital technology in a constructive, positive way that will no doubt be great for their future careers and for Queensland.

“The awards also showcase the outstanding education in the field of coding, robotics and digital technologies occurring in schools right across Queensland.

“We’ll all reap the rewards when these bright young people move into the workforce and help keep Queensland at the cutting edge of the technological revolution.”

Image credit: iStock.com/Milan_Jovic