Northern Ireland could potentially become the UK’s answer to Silicon Valley, as a whopping three quarters of its young residents express a desire to work in the tech industry.
This figure surpasses those from London (69 per cent), the West Midlands (63 per cent) and the North East (63 per cent), according to a poll of 1,000 teenagers aged between 13 and 19.
The survey revealed that 40 per cent of youngsters across all regions are proactively learning tech-based skills outside their formal education to stay competitive. However, a significant 65 per cent believe their background will influence their progression within the sector.
The study was commissioned by Samsung Electronics UK to coincide with the launch of its Solve For Tomorrow competition, aimed at supporting young British innovators.
Soohyun Jessie Park, a representative from the electronics giant, stated: “Innovation is for everyone and no young person should ever feel discouraged to pursue a good idea. This year, we’re really focusing on the idea that innovation is for everyone, no matter the background.”
In the West Midlands, more than a tenth (11 per cent) of those surveyed have looked into registering a patent for an idea, and almost a quarter (23 per cent) have thought of a way technology could help their local area.
And while 39 per cent of respondents believe they have the potential to create the next big tech invention, 40 per cent are deterred by the cost of education or training in tech and worry the lack of contacts or mentors in the industry could hinder their development opportunities.
Rapper and entrepreneur Krept, who is part of the Solve for Tomorrow launch panel, commented: “As an entrepreneur, I’ve been in the position where you have an idea but you don’t know how to bring it to life. It’s a struggle everyone faces, but unfortunately it’s easier for some to get around that than others.”
He added: “Programmes like Solve for Tomorrow are great they’re getting young people involved, engaging them on their terms, and bringing something to life, I’m thrilled to be involved.”