The Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills has spoken of the importance of Newcastle’s flamboyant ScienceFest in an official ceremony to launch this year’s campaign at the Centre for Life.

Vince Cable praised organisers of the popular week-long annual festival across the city – held as part of National Science and Engineering Week – and saluted “their efforts to inspire people” with science initatives “that will leave a lasting impression.”

“It’s vital that we engage the next generation with science so they have the skills and knowledge to work and live in an increasingly technological society and make a real contribution to economic growth,” he said.

“They also build on both Newcastle’s rich engineering heritage and its growing expertise in science and research, lots of which is taking place here at the Centre for Life.”

Cable was assisted by pupils from two local schools who had taken part in DNA workshops and Astronaut Training sessions at the venue.

“Most kids are naturally curious about the world around them,” said the Centre’s Linda Conlon.

"We deliver activities that are not only great fun but also designed to bring out the inner scientist that is present in each child.  It’s the first step towards getting them to think about a career in science.”

• Newcastle ScienceFest runs until March 15 2012. See the programme online for full details.