Over 500 students from 18 schools across Darwin, Palmerston and the rural region are exploring the world of new-age technology today at the Department of Education’s Skills 2021 Expo.

The Skills 2021 Expo showcases state of the art technology including the latest developments in robotics, 3D printing, multimedia and gaming.

Students will be able to experience firsthand how to fly drones, build robots, create digital stories, learn about tablets with built-in projectors and participate in the Sphero Robot Olympics.

Nakara Primary School are one of the schools taking part in today’s event and principal Britany Roestenburg said “We are all very excited about this expo.”

“At Nakara Primary School, we are working hard to expand the use of technology and maximise student learning for the future and this expo does just that,” Ms Roestenburg said.

“We are teaching children the skills to be successful in life.”

The Department of Education has partnered with major tech-companies to deliver this event for Territory students including Microsoft, Adobe and The Brainary, as well as Darwin High School, Palmerston Senior College and the NT Music School.

Darwin High School principal Trevor Read is thrilled to have his students participating in the expo, showcasing specialist equipment the students have access to including 3D printing.

“Seeing cutting edge technologies and participating in hands on workshops is the best way to engage young people as they really embrace new technology and trends and are excited about what the future holds,” Mr Read said.

“Experiencing the technology in action really gets students thinking about the exciting study pathways and career opportunities that exist in this space.

“As educators we have an important role in fostering the skills and capabilities that students need in order to harness these opportunities.”

The Skills 2021 Expo is the start of a week of exciting demonstrations and workshops in Territory schools, from 8-12 August 2016.

Students will participate in a range of activities that highlight the exciting pathways students can embark on after school, providing them with career enabling science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) skills.

The Department of Education has a strong focus on equipping Territory students with the necessary skills to provide the best possible opportunities for life after school.

Media contact: Kat Acampora – 0401 119 215