STEAM launches Science Fair in Lethem

Mar 20, 2018 News

– Paving the way for improved technology to enhance the education sector

Chief Education Officer interacts with a few of the students at the fair

The Department of Education launched its Biennial Regional Science Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEAM) Fair yesterday at the Arapaima Primary School under the theme “Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.”
The fair paved the way for a green and sustainable society. It aimed to give students an opportunity to display innovative and creative projects produced by students themselves to solve problems within their community or school environment.
During the opening ceremony, District Education Officer, Mr. Selwyn Griffith, noted that it was the first time in the history of Science fairs that nursery schools were able to be a part of this spectacular event. Furthermore, this added to the historical importance of the fair since it is the first time that the Arts were included.
Regional Educational Officer (ag), Ms. Kateri Joseph, stated that the science fair provide the opportunity and space for students to experiment with science, systematic procedures and rules and applying them to arrive at a solution.
Based on the theme, Ms. Joseph charged the students to ask themselves what a green economy means and where it will take Guyana. She highlighted an array of issues such as global warming and the shortage of food as some issues, which need to be addressed.
As such, students are encouraged to think of ways by which these problems can be solved or to mitigate their effects.
“The science fair is an opportunity to look at solutions to solve issues within our communities and schools. How can we promote greener societies inclusive of helping people change their behaviour?” Ms. Joseph said that STEAM Fairs are taking learning to another level through inquiry and experimenting.
She added that learning is not confined to the classroom. Through these activities, each child can have an opportunity to take what obtains in the classroom and apply it to everyday life.
Marcel Hutson, Chief Education Officer (CEO), commended the organisers for exhibiting vision and forward thinking by including nursery schools as part of the exhibition.
He stated that the event has benefitted many students and teachers. He said that the intention of these exhibitions of talent and innovation has always been to stimulate the young minds to analyse, synthesize, stimulate and evaluate situations with the aim of improving their lives and the lives of citizens while exposing students to critical thinking skills.
The CEO charged the regional officials to utilise an elaborate planning exercise so that schools regardless of wherever they are located can still be able to participate in the activity. Further, he said that STEAM requires a different approach.
He stated that we have to move beyond chalk and talk and make use of technology to improve the education sector.
The schools that participated in this year’s STEAM fair were St. Ignatius Secondary School, Aishalton Secondary School, Parikwarnaua Primary School, Aishalton Primary School, Arapaima Primary School, Arapaima Nursery School and Parishara Nursery School.