SIXTY STUDENTS from excessive faculties in Kingston, St Andrew and St Catherine, together with 15 at-risk youth, participated within the Summer Camp Adventures with Technology and Education (SCATE) Sustainable Engineering Camp for Teens, held on the Faculty of Engineering at The University of the West Indies, Mona.
For one week, the scholars, ages 13 to 19 years, had been immersed in sustainability and engineering coaching, the place they had been launched to sensible expertise in engineering and innovation. With a myriad of audio system and displays, the members had been additionally impressed to see local weather motion as a viable profession path.
The camp, which was free of value to the scholars, additionally promoted teamwork, crucial considering and management. Amalea Jones, founder and operations director at SCATE, stated engineering challenges college students to analyse, experiment, and adapt, sharpening their skill to deal with advanced, real-world issues.
“Introducing engineering and innovation to students is vital because it fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, cultivates creativity and a passion for learning, and prepares them to be future innovators in a technology-driven world,” Jones stated.
“These experiences allow students to develop valuable collaboration and communication skills, build confidence, and connect abstract concepts to real-world applications, giving them an advantage in college, careers, and beyond,” she added.
Some of the presentation matters included; The Climate Crisis – How Engineering Can Make a Difference; Climate Change 101, Engineering for Climate Solutions, Renewable Energy (Solar & Wind), Smart Cities, Water Scarcity, Vertical Farming & Agriculture, Moving Toward a Low-Carbon Future and Waste-to-Energy, Circular Economy.
The college students had been additionally actively engaged in constructing mini photo voltaic panel circuits; the place they had been additionally in a position to calculate their carbon footprint and determine discount methods. They additionally constructed a DIY, rainwater harvesting and filtration system, and used recyclable supplies to create an innovate product in a ‘recycling for innovation’ problem.
The college students had been additionally in a position to witness first-hand sustainable manufacturing and climate-resilient agricultural practices throughout area journeys to Caribbean Cement Company in Rockfort, and Caribbean Broilers in Clarendon.
Co-founder at SCATE, Simone Walker, stated innovation is rooted in challenges and curiosity; engineering schooling supplies the proper setting to discover new concepts and develop ingenious options.
“Students gain self-confidence by figuring out how the world works and by making strategic decisions in projects, preparing them to move forward independently. Research and innovative activities awaken inquisitiveness, inspiring students to ask questions and explore uncharted territory,” Walker stated.
Tywon Comrie, participant within the 15 to 18 years age group, stated he was excited to take part within the camp, the place he had the chance not solely to work together along with his friends, but additionally study innovation and engineering.
“I learned so much about climate change and our environment. I will definitely do my part to help the environment. The activities were hands-on and awesome, and this was my favourite part. I like to do things with my hands. I am already looking forward to next year,” Comrie stated.
Kristoff Clark of Wolmer’s Boys’ School, and Matthew-Kymani Smith of St George’s College, members within the 13 to fifteen age group, had been two of the highest college students in that class. “It was challenging at times, especially the activities, but we learned a lot. The sessions that we participated in were also very competitive, but we worked together and won almost every challenge,” each stated.
Meanwhile, Alyssa Jolly, challenge lead, CSR at RUBiS Energy Jamaica, title sponsors for the camp, was elated that the scholars had the chance to be engaged in progressive actions.
“The use of technology, especially in education, provides access to vital educational programmes. By supporting youth and technology challenges, RUBiS inspires creativity and helps nurture the next generation of innovators,” McCalla stated.
“Investments in technology and infrastructure directly improve the quality of life for community members by enhancing educational opportunities and access to information,” she added.