'Climate change is hurting sea life' - Waterford student wins 'green skills' award

A Waterford student has won a prestigious national competition showcasing the innovation and green skills of the nation’s next generation of talent.

Daniel Alexander Shebela, of St Augustine’s College Waterford is an award winner in the Generation Apprenticeship second level competition where students created a physical or virtual letter ‘A’ to showcase the potential they see in the apprenticeship route to learning, qualifications and careers.

Organised by the National Apprenticeship Office, the competition challenged students to learn about the exciting choice of national apprenticeship opportunities now available and how future careers can champion green values and a sustainable future for all.

Daniel said: “I focused my entry on marine apprenticeships because the ocean needs us now more than ever. Climate change is hurting sea life, polluting our waters, and damaging ecosystems we all depend on. I wanted to show the importance of taking care of the sea, and how young people like us can be part of that change.”

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“There are so many exciting jobs out there that protect the ocean, from marine biology to diving, ocean engineering, and even ship building. These careers are powerful, and they start with learning and doing, not just talking. My ‘A’ is also a symbol for Action - to inspire others to explore ocean careers and become protectors of our planet’s future.”

Competition judge Edmond Connolly, South East Regional Skills Forum Manager, said: “The power of students to shape and influence the future was clear, and we were so impressed by the entries submitted by these talented and driven students.

“The competition provided invaluable insights around some of the challenging questions facing our planet today and how future career choices can offer solutions.

Mary-Liz Trant, Director of the National Apprenticeship Office congratulated all of the 2025 competition entrants and winners:

“It was such a privilege and pleasure to work with the students, their teachers and guidance counsellors on this competition. The winning entrants will feature in our promotion of the 77+ apprenticeships available and the vital contribution apprentices play in tackling climate change.”

“The percentage of jobs in Ireland requiring green skills is one of the highest internationally with 75% of employment here requiring some level of green skills. That is a powerful reality which we aim to support via apprenticeship careers.”