(L-R) Denis Dullea, head of Ericsson Athlone, with Alex Bishop of Coláiste Chiaráin, Seán Farrelly of Moate Community College, Jake Flynn of Athlone Community College, Michelle Egan, head of program and operations at Ericsson, Athlone.

Three local students receive Ericsson computer science education award

Published: Thu 13 Aug 2026, 3:54 PM

Recently three local secondary school students were awarded Ericsson Computer Science Student of the Year Award. The recipients Alex Bishop (Coláiste Chiaráin), Seán Farrelly (Moate Community College) and Jake Flynn (Athlone Community College) were recognised for their outstanding performance and passion for the subject.

Apart from being greeted by the top management of the company and given a tour of the campus, the young lads were also awarded a month-long paid internship gaining hands-on experience. The award forms part of Ericsson’s INFUSE (Investing in Future Software Engineers) programme, which supports schools across the Midlands by encouraging interest in technology and offering real-world opportunities to students. The INFUSE initiative aims to promote Computer Science and technology as enjoyable and rewarding pathways to future careers.

This award not only recognises academic achievement but also highlights the vital role local schools are playing in equipping students with the skills and confidence to pursue careers in the ever-evolving tech sector.

The inclusion of Computer Science as a Leaving Certificate subject in schools such as Coláiste Chiaráin, Moate Community School, and Athlone Community College reflects a growing acceptance of its importance in preparing students for the modern workforce.