Students excel with Builda Bank entries

St Mary's College in Arklow picked up the 'Judges Merit Award' for their 'Friends Finances' entry in the final of the AIB Build a Bank Challenge.

St David's Holy Faith SS in Greystones also took part in the programme for transition and fifth year students. Over 70 schools from across Ireland took part in the virtual final which was held through video conferencing, with each team presenting their project to a panel of judges.

A popular programme with both teachers and students, over 18,000 students have taken part in the AIB Build A Bank Challenge since it started in 2002. The programme also encourages students to give back to their school and community.

Normally, the year-long programme culminates at a national final in Dublin. Due to current Covid-19 restrictions this was not possible this year, so students presentrf their Build A Bank projects through video conferencing.

Mark Doyle, Chief Marketing Officer, AIB said, 'Since the AIB Build A Bank Challenge was introduced in 2002, it has continued to steadily grow and evolve as a programme which engages with thousands of students across Ireland.

'We are of course disappointed that we couldn't host the annual final in Dublin this year. However, we were delighted to progress with digital presentations and judging, and still recognise the incredible amount of work that has gone in to each project.

'Every year we are amazed by the creativity and hard work demonstrated by all the students, and this year has been no exception.'

St. Mary's Secondary School, Mallow, Co. Cork were awarded the title of national champions 2020 as well as €5,000 for their school.