By Dacia Richards | HGP Nightly News
The Artisan Conference Centre was transformed into a hub of creativity and innovation as students from across all regions gathered for the Ministry of Education’s biannual STEAM Fair, celebrating excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.
This year’s fair, themed “Innovative Solutions Through STEAM for Sustainable Development in Guyana,” runs from April 23 to 25 and features remarkable student-driven inventions aimed at solving real-world problems, especially those unique to Guyana’s environmental and infrastructural challenges.
From primary to secondary levels, students impressed with their inventive and eco-conscious projects. One team used discarded materials to build storytelling puppets, combining creative arts with environmental awareness to reduce waste and encourage engagement in learning.
Another team engineered biodegradable cups made from cow manure and cardboard, which decompose naturally when planted, offering an eco-friendly alternative to plastic.
“These cups won’t pollute the environment—they break down and help the soil,” explained one enthusiastic student inventor.
To tackle plastic pollution in the Cuyuni River, a group of students developed a clip-on garbage bin that attaches securely to the sides of passenger boats, allowing travelers to easily dispose of their waste while preserving the river’s ecosystem.
Other standout projects included a portable hydroelectric generator that uses turbines and pumps to harness river water for off-grid electricity generation, and a solar panel cleaning robot designed to make maintenance safer and more efficient, especially in remote hinterland communities.
“In the interior, someone has to climb rooftops to clean solar panels manually. Our robot offers a safer and more effective option,” one team member explained.
The STEAM Fair not only showcases the ingenuity of Guyanese youth but also reinforces the importance of education aligned with national development goals. Students proudly demonstrated their ability to think critically, innovate practically, and act sustainably.
The Ministry of Education sees this event as a launchpad for future scientists, engineers, and designers, encouraging the use of technology and creativity to solve local problems and inspire global thinking.
