EDUCATION Minister Nicolette Henry has said that the inclusion of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) in schools is crucial for the development of the country’s future innovators and entrepreneurs.

Henry made these remarks on Wednesday, at the launching of the biennial National STEAM Fair hosted at the St. Joseph High School under the theme: ‘STEAM: Paving the way for a green and sustainable society’.

There, a total of 148 projects within 23 categories were displayed by primary, secondary and tertiary level schools from 11 districts around Georgetown.
The students were tasked with identifying a problem in their school, community or in the country with a view to addressing it with an inventive idea.
Delivering the feature remarks, Henry pointed out that the adoption of the Arts into the mix of activities was a necessary step, which would ensure the inclusion of all skill sets and talents among the country’s children.

“The movement of STEM to STEAM by adding arts to the technical creativity is the foundation for advancement in all fields,” she said, later adding: “Through such activities, we offer to our students and teachers the opportunity to showcase, disseminate, and share knowledge related to science, arts, and technology.”
Meanwhile scores of projects lined the school’s compound and hallways, depicting creative inventions by the students to help to protect the environment, make life easier and generate and save energy.

There were also projects which showcased Guyana’s agricultural and medicinal potential, artistic works such as sculptures and woodwork, as well as, artificial intelligence creations such as interactive mini-robots.

The Minister took time out to visit many of the booths, as the children knowledgably explained the ideas behind their projects and how they would serve to help the country.
In addition, participating in the 2018 STEAM Fair were the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), the University of Guyana (UG) and STEM Guyana.
Attending the fair were: Assistant Chief Education Officers (ACEOs), Owen Pollard and June Ann Gonsalves, as well as a number of parents and teachers who supported the students.
The national fair, which is set to conclude its three-day run today, goes hand in hand with the Ministry’s aim of increased promotion of Science and Technology in schools.