Students are better thinkers than adults

Students are innovative and think outside the box; they are naturally good at inventions and spotting solutions to problems - but adults tend to think mainstream and stick to what they know.That is the assessment of Westmeath County Enterprise Board as its people prepare for the county final of the Student Enterprise Awards, at Golden Island Shopping Centre in Athlone on Friday February 22.Among the ideas this year are a flashing dog collar, medical app for smart phones, a calf coat, an animal feed holder, a book for children with special needs and a handbook for those living independently for the first time, as well as a natural solution that stops dogs chewing things you don't want them to chew!The Enterprise Board starts working with the schools each September, concentrating on idea generation to identify viable businesses.Speaking for Westmeath County Enterprise Board, Tracey Tallon said: "It's great for students to have time within the timetable to look at self-employment and we break down the elements so they can see what is involved in running their own businesses."We probably underestimate the capability of students and it is truly impressive what ideas they develop on this programme."Students attend workshops with their teachers and specialist student business advisors who work with them to develop their projects, conduct market research, raise finance and on marketing.Many of the schools organise market days to help students generate sales and the students work in their own time at selling their products.The county final is a great fun day after all the hard work, and more than 120 students from nine Westmeath secondary schools will be present on February 22, displaying their work from 10am till 2pm. Many will be selling their wares as well.Judges on the day will select three representatives from Westmeath to attend the national Student Enterprise Awards final in Croke Park in April.