News that the Science Fair for secondary education students will return after a seven-year break (see related story) is most welcome. Interesting ideas and applications have come out of the formerly annual event in the past.
Confirmed participants are from Milton Peters College (MPC) TKL, PKL and HAVO/VWO programmes, Methodist Agogic Centre (MAC) High School, Sundial School and Learning Unlimited (LU), while registration is still possible until the end of next week. As stated by organisers, the activity allows youngsters to “develop analytical skills and display research findings using scientific models.”
Moreover, it challenges them to go the extra mile rather than do only what is needed to pass courses and eventually graduate. The element of friendly competition provides an added incentive.
Speaking of which, Tuesday’s paper included coverage of the third Regional SKILLS Competition between 11 teams from St. Maarten, St. Eustatius and Saba, hosted by the National Institute for Professional Advancement (NIPA) and – in part – Sundial. It involved different contests for care, hospitality and carpentry.
These initiatives are significant, because they stimulate creativity and putting theory into practice among future leaders who will be dealing with some of the major problems and questions already facing their generations. Know-how enhances the ability to adapt to change.
In both cases support from businesses is said to be indispensable. That they are willing to give such under far-from-easy socioeconomic circumstances deserves praise.
It can be looked at as worthwhile investment on behalf of the community.
