Mashup competition to inspire Canterbury secondary students

Mashup competition set to inspire Canterbury secondary students

High schools students will have the chance to compete for a share of $2000 of prize-money in the first ‘Mashup’ competition set for August 17 and 18 in Christchurch.

Students will compete in teams to produce a webpage or application that pulls together information or data from two or more sources, and create a new service.

Coordinator Bruce Fraser said teams will have the opportunity to work with experienced business mentors to develop their Mashups.

“It will be challenging for the students, but will also be a fun-filled learning opportunity for everyone who takes part.”

The concept has worked successfully in the Bay of Plenty and now is being offered in Canterbury for the first time.

The students will have a time-limit to produce a business plan, design concept and ultimately a Mashup.

“This competition encourages and rewards entrepreneurial teenagers to think outside the box and be creative using technology, marketing, business and presentation skills,” Mr Fraser said.

Environment Canterbury is coordinating the event with the help of several Canterbury organisations and businesses. Director of Finance and Corporate Services, Miles McConway said that this is an excellent opportunity for the regional council to work with local companies and organisations to encourage the use of its open data and at the same time to foster the development of youth in a real life IT and business development scenario.

Entries close on Friday 9 August and students can find out more information from the Canterbury Mashup website www.chch.mashup.co.nz

ENDS

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