Surgical robot encourages Oxford students into a life of science

  • Meridian

Getting more young people interested in science is vital for the economy and the future. That's according to the Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership, which has launched a special scheme to do just that.

GCSE and A-level pupils were able to get up close to the world famous Da Vinci surgical robot, which is being used in operations across the Thames Valley.

The remotely operated robot can perform intricate and delicate tasks on the smallest of objects.

A five pence piece is manoeuvred into position, along with tiny plastic hoops - mimicking the skills needed to perform invasive operations on human beings.

GCSE and A-level pupils were able to manipulate the da Vinci robot Credit: ITV Meridian

Here at the Intuitive Surgical complex at Oxford Science Park, GCSE and A-level pupils were able to have a go themselves at manipulating the da Vinci robot.

The remotely operated robot can perform intricate and delicate tasks Credit: ITV Meridian

It's all part of a drive to get more youngsters, especially girls, interested in science as a career.

  • Rob Panting Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership

A present day technology which is already stirring the interest of those who may well be using cutting edge science in the future.

  • Alastair Lamb Consultant surgeon