– activity ‘important’ for MoE’s annual events calendar

THE Ministry of Education on Friday morning held its closing ceremony for the five-day national Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) fair at St Joseph High School, where winners were awarded.

The event was held under the theme: “Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics paving the way for a ‘green’ and sustainable society.” It had a large turnout of participants from far and wide, who showcased their varying talents by way of projects on display, accompanied by an oral presentation.

In his remarks, Assistant Chief Education Officer (Technology) Patrick Chinedu told the gathering that the biennial event is a much-anticipated one and this year the students did not disappoint, but came out with very innovation projects.
Meanwhile, Senior Education Officer Carol Benn, said that the turnout was good and termed the activity as important for the ministry’s calendar of events, since it highlights the best projects undertaken by students across the country.

She related that the national STEAM fair was designed for students to expand their scope in the five disciplines that the event encompasses, as well as to sharpen their skills and communication while at the same time making new friends and embracing new challenges.
Benn added that the students’ participation had many benefits, given the many projects on display. She said that the ministry is proud of all the students who had invested many long hours and days to complete their projects.

Permanent Secretary attached to the Ministry of Education, Vibert Welch, told the large crowd of students, teachers, parents and others that he was very impressed with the projects on display, admitting that he felt a sense of pride. Further, he described the students as talented, given their high level of output.

He added that it was a job well done and he was indeed pleased by the good articulation of the students during the oral presentation of their projects.
Welch stated that in the 23 categories of exhibits in the STEAM fair, the displays were excellent and it goes to show the thirst of the students who are willing to embrace science and technology which are ever-changing.

He disclosed that because of how well the students did, Guyana has been asked to participate in Brazil next year. He said too that Region Four has indicated its willingness to host the next STEAM fair.

Minister of Education Nicolette Henry, last week underscored the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics in the development of the country’s future generation at the 2018 National STEAM fair opening.
Speaking at the event hosted at the St Joseph High School, the minister explained that the national fair forms part of the ministry’s strategy to promote science and technology in the school setting.

Guyana’s 14th biennial National STEAM fair spotlighted the importance of such a forum to the growing young generation.
Guyana only recently adopted the Arts into what was previously known as the Science fair and the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fair; and the Ministry of Education is currently exploring all options for the development of these areas in schools nationwide.