A total of three hundred and twenty eight students from twenty seven schools across the Virgin Islands will showcase their creativity, research and problem-solving skills during the upcoming National Science and Innovation Fair, one of the major highlights of Education Month 2026.

The participating schools include nineteen primary schools and eight secondary schools from both public and private institutions across the Territory, highlighting the wide level of student engagement in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) education.

Students will compete in several categories based on their grade levels. Primary school students from Kindergarten to Grade six will present models and experiments, while secondary school students from Grades seven to twelve will showcase models, experiments and artistic interpretations related to scientific concepts.

Projects will be evaluated by a panel of judges consisting of educators, science professionals, engineers, environmental specialists and representatives from partner organizations and government agencies. Judges will assess projects based on their relevance to the theme, scientific thought and application, originality and creativity, as well as students’ ability to clearly explain their research process, experimentation and conclusions.

Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports Honourable Sharie B. de Castro said the National Science and Innovation Fair represents an important opportunity to nurture the Territory’s next generation of innovators.

“The National Science and Innovation Fair showcases what happens when curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking come together in our classrooms,” the Minister said. “Events like this allow our students to explore real-world challenges, apply what they have learned, and develop the confidence to present their ideas and innovations. When we invest in opportunities that encourage scientific thinking and innovation, we are preparing the next generation of Virgin Islanders to lead, solve problems, and shape the future of our Territory.”

Education Officer for Science and Physical Education Mrs. Renee Weston-Caines highlighted the importance of the fair in supporting student learning and innovation across the Territory.

“The fair promotes critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving, while encouraging students to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics,” Mrs. Weston-Caines said. “It also highlights how innovation can help address real-world challenges in the Virgin Islands.”

Several awards will be presented during the fair, including Overall Best Project, Overall Top School and Category Awards. Members of the public will also have the opportunity to participate in selecting a People’s Choice Award.

Public voting will take place in person during the exhibition period on Thursday, allowing visitors to cast a vote for their favourite project. The project receiving the highest number of votes will receive the People’s Choice Award.

Mrs. Weston-Caines also pointed to one of the key focuses of this year’s event.

“This year’s fair places an even greater emphasis on innovation and local problem-solving, with all models required to be fully functional,” she said.

The National Science and Innovation Fair continues to play an important role in encouraging students to explore careers in science and innovation while demonstrating how creative thinking can help address real-world challenges in the Virgin Islands. Over the years, the fair has helped spark students’ interest in science and has provided a platform where students gain confidence in presenting their ideas and innovations.

The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports is encouraging parents, families and members of the public to attend and support the event as it celebrates the creativity and talent of the Territory’s young people while promoting a culture of innovation across the Virgin Islands.

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, where visitors will have the opportunity to view student projects and cast their votes for the People’s Choice Award.

The National Science and Innovation Fair is supported by several partners and sponsors, including Platinum Sponsors Guana Fund, Seven Seas and Oil Nut Bay, as well as major sponsors Unite BVI and Harneys. Additional information about the fair can be found at www.bvisciencefair.com.