Two local students awarded prestigious Ericsson bursary

Two exceptional students from Athlone schools have received an Ericsson bursary, recognising their outstanding academic achievements and potential in the field of Computer Science.

ShengXin Jerry Chen from Coláiste Chiaráin and Christian Turean from Athlone Community College were celebrated at an awards ceremony held at Ericsson’s Software campus in Athlone.

Both students achieved H1 grades in Leaving Certificate Honours Maths and have commenced Computer Science degrees at University College Dublin (UCD).

The awards were presented by Denis Dullea, Head of the Ericsson Athlone Site, who commended the students on their accomplishments and wished them success in their studies and future careers.

The Ericsson Bursary is a key initiative under the company’s Investing in Future Software Engineers (INFUSE) programme. The Infuse programme works with all primary and secondary schools in the midlands region aiming to inspire students to pursue careers in Computer Science.

In addition to financial support— ranging from €500 to €2,000 per year— successful applicants also benefit from paid summer internships at Ericsson. These internships provide students with valuable opportunities to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting.

Applications for the bursary are currently open to sixth-year students in Athlone-based schools who demonstrate exceptional ability and interest in the field.

Anyone interested in applying can do so through their career guidance teacher.

The Ericsson INFUSE program seeks to encourage young people to see the fields of computer science, mathematics, and technology as enjoyable and rewarding pathways to successful careers.