— PNN festival promotes innovation, robotics, problem-solving among young learners

CHILDREN and young people in Bartica were given an opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through hands-on activities during the Project New Nation (PNN) STEM Fest 2026, held on August 23.
In a recent release, PNN said the festival brought together children, young people, parents, educators, community members, partners and corporate sponsors for a day focused on innovation, creativity, learning and exploration.
The event commenced with an official opening ceremony, which brought together representatives from the community, sponsors and other stakeholders in support of STEM education and youth development.

According to PNN, participants engaged in several activities and competitions, including a scavenger hunt, rocket-building competition and robotics contest.
Participants also had the opportunity to interact with exhibitors and take part in hands-on learning activities throughout the day.
The organisation said the activities were designed to encourage curiosity, problem-solving, creativity and innovation among young people while helping them develop skills that could support their future academic and professional development.
Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, also participated in the official launch, with PNN expressing appreciation for his support of the initiative.
PNN also recognised the support of title sponsor, ExxonMobil Guyana, along with platinum sponsors TechnipFMC and Gulf Valve, Piping and Controls Inc.; gold sponsors One Communications and Keen 360; and bronze sponsor GBTI.
A highlight of the official launch was the delivery of the vote of thanks by Javina Mitchell, valedictorian of the Project New Nation Literacy Learning Programme Batch of 2026.
According to the release, Mitchell recognised the contributions of sponsors, partners and supporters while encouraging young people to continue learning, exploring and believing in their potential.
PNN said the successful staging of STEM Fest demonstrates the importance of collaboration among civil society, Government, the private sector and communities in creating opportunities for Guyana’s next generation of innovators and leaders.
The organisation continues to promote education, innovation and youth empowerment through initiatives such as the PNN SPARRK Lab, which provides young learners with opportunities to explore Science, Programming, Arts, Robotics, Reading and Knowledge.
Project New Nation is a youth-led non-profit organisation focused on education, youth development, innovation and community-based initiatives. Through its programmes and partnerships, PNN seeks to create opportunities that support learning, personal development and sustainable community transformation.