Robotics kits for city secondary schools
─ as they prepare for annual STEM competition
DPI, Guyana, Thursday, September 12, 2019
Six secondary schools in the city are now better prepared to participate in the annual Science Technology Engineer and Mathematics (STEM) challenge set for the end of November, this year; following the acquisition of robotic kits compliments of the Volunteer Youth Corps (VYC).
With funding from US oil and gas giant ExxonMobil, the VYC provided kits to the Richard Ishmael Secondary, Tucville and Dolphin Secondaries, the New Central High, St John’s College, and Charlestown Secondary School.
While the packages will aid in the students’ preparation for the upcoming competition, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Youth Corps, Goldie Scott said the kits will also support innovation and creativity among students. “We want to ensure that they have the technology to use and today is a great opportunity for that,” Scott said at a simple ceremony held at the Richard Ishmael Secondary.
The VYC has been partnering with the oil company for almost a decade to provide after school STEM education to over 11 secondary schools, Scott said. The youth corps has been utilising the services of Grade Nine to Eleven teachers to assist in the afternoon sessions.
She said the organisation works hand in hand with the Ministry of Education for the benefit of all students.
For the STEM challenge later in the year, participants will be required to build a robot that can alleviate an environmental concern, including pollution, deforestation or combatting climate change. An objective of the challenge is to allow students to work as a team while at the same time learn STEM concepts while solving real-world challenges, using research and creativity.
ExxonMobil’s Senior Director of Public and Government Affairs, Deedra Moe said robotics can be a foundation for students to realise their passions, learn to communicate across different technology platforms, enhance team building and community involvement.
Since her arrival in Guyana just over a year ago, Moe has been able to witness the positive impact STEM has had on education. “Through STEM education, has increasingly become a centre for development and Exxon Mobil Guyana has recognised that and supporting and empowering youth is essential. We look to you to find solutions to challenging problems and that is why we partner and continue our support to volunteer youth corps.”