The National Science and Innovation Fair 2026 officially opened on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, bringing together student innovators from across the Virgin Islands as part of the Territory’s ongoing observance of Education Month 2026.

The opening ceremony began with a word of prayer by Deputy Chief Education Officer Mrs. Selwood, which was followed by remarks from education officials who emphasized the importance of the fair in fostering creativity, innovation and student development.

Chief Education Officer Mrs. Orlandette Crabbe thanked the judges for their contribution to the event and encouraged students to approach the judging process with confidence, while also acknowledging the support of schools, teachers and parents.

She stated, “Judges, we could not put on a national science fair without your support. Thank you for the giving of your time and your talents to make this week’s events successful. Students, we want when it’s time for you to be judged you give it your all. Whatever it is you have put in is what you will put out, so we know that you will do very well. We wish you the best today and we thank all the schools who are participating, in particular the teachers and the parents who have been working with you to put your projects together.”

Education Officer for Science and Physical Education Mrs. Renee Weston-Caines described the fair as a key highlight of Education Month and an important opportunity for students to showcase their ideas and creativity. 

“It is with great excitement that we welcome you to this year’s Science Fair,” she said, noting that the level of work on display would present a strong challenge for judges.

She also commended students for their efforts, highlighting the dedication and creativity that brought their projects to life.

Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports Honourable Sharie B. de Castro expressed enthusiasm at the level of innovation on display, noting that students are already demonstrating their ability to contribute to solving real challenges within the Territory.

“You are not just the leaders of tomorrow, you are the innovators, change agents and problem solvers of today,” the Minister said.

She added that the projects reflect a growing emphasis on critical thinking and real-world application within the education system, with students addressing issues relevant to the Virgin Islands.

The Minister also extended a direct invitation to the public to experience the fair firsthand.

“I want to personally invite the public to come out on Thursday and Friday to see for yourselves the level of ingenuity and creativity that exists in our schools,” she said.

The fair features a wide range of student projects exploring areas such as infrastructure, renewable energy, waste management and environmental sustainability, demonstrating how young people are applying their knowledge to real-world challenges.

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports is reminding the public that the National Science and Innovation Fair will be open to the public on Thursday, March 19 and Friday, March 20 at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex.

Members of the public are encouraged to attend during these days to view student projects, support participants and experience the innovation taking place across the Territory’s schools.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to participate in selecting the People’s Choice Award by casting a vote for their favourite project during the exhibition period.

The Ministry encourages the community to come out and support the Territory’s young innovators as Education Month 2026 continues to highlight the importance of building a strong foundation for a future-focused generation.