Award-winning Meath students recognised for ‘Emoji Politics’ project
Three students from Boyne Community School in Trim have been recognised by Meath County Council following their success at a national science competition.
The fifth-year students, David Kincius, Jack Turner and Kipras Samoska, were welcomed to Buvinda House last week after winning the inaugural Stripe Young Scientist Democracy and Elections Award for their project, Emoji Politics.
The project explored how the use of informal language, including emojis, influences young people’s perceptions of politics.
The students met with An Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council, Cllr Wayne Harding, and Chief Executive Kieran Kehoe, who congratulated them on their achievement and discussed how their research could support the council’s work in civic engagement.
During the meeting, the students outlined how their findings could help improve communication with younger audiences and encourage greater public participation in local democracy.
Cllr Harding praised the group’s work, saying it demonstrated “exceptional creativity and awareness” of how young people engage with politics today.
“Their work offers real, practical insights that can help us strengthen our connection with younger audiences in Meath. We are incredibly proud of their success and their contribution to democratic understanding,” he said.
Mr Kehoe said the project highlighted the importance of understanding how younger generations communicate.
“Their project shows how innovative thinking can enhance public engagement. Understanding how young people communicate is vital to shaping services, policies, and participation opportunities that are accessible to all,” he said.
“We look forward to integrating their insights into our ongoing work in civic engagement across Meath.”