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130 pupils from across Northern Ireland gathered in St Louise’s Comprehensive College for Ulster University’s Lower Sixth Economics Conference.

The event, which gave students a unique insight into the world of economics, was organised by the Department of Accounting, Finance and Economics at Ulster University Business School. Economists from Ulster University presented on a range of issues from the very topical economic impact of Brexit to applying economic theory to the labour market and automation to the careers open for economics graduates.

In attendance were pupils from Ballymena Academy, Methodist College Belfast, Portadown College,  Sacred Heart Grammar School Newry, St Louis Grammar School Ballymena, St Louise’s Comprehensive School Belfast, St Malachy's College Belfast, St Mary's Grammar School Magherafelt and Wallace High School, Lisburn.

Dr Mark Bailey, Course and Subject Director of Economics at Ulster University said:

“Now in its third outing, our sixth form economics conference is an opportunity for pupils to see first hand the work of economists and its impact on society. Attendee numbers have grown from year to year and we work closely with schools to ensure the programme complements the A level Economics curriculm.”

Mr Eddie McKee, Head of Economics at St Louise’s said:

“As a school with a very strong economics department we were delighted to host this year’s A level economics conference. It was pleasing to see the large numbers attending from so many schools across the province, and it was particularly gratifying to note that two of our past pupls were presenting at the conference.“