From January 25 to 31, 2026, schools across the island participated in the National STEAM Education Week. Held under the theme ‘Creating Solutions, Driving Change’, the week was designed to empower young Jamaicans to employ 21st century problem-solving techniques to tackle real-world problems. Schools presented projects in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) to point towards “renewable energy solutions, climate solutions, robotics and automation, health innovations, agriculture and food security, and environmental advocacy”.
In preparation for this week, three Alpha Academy students participated in an enriching discussion on digital literacy and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom. Then, on Wednesday, January 28, Alpha Academy held its very own STEAM Expo during which students were fully engaged across all five STEAM areas as they made various creative and informative STEAM-based presentations, displays and demonstrations. The Alpha Academy’ Robotics Team, in partnership with Dunoon Technical High School, educated fellow students about robotics and automation while, of course, proudly showcasing their own robots which they built themselves! Another set of students exhibited functional and creative products which were created by recycling trash items. Furthermore, students gave a fun and engaging ice cream–making demonstration, an interactive presentation on static electricity, as well as a dazzling fashion show displaying clothes made from recycled materials.
Following this, 7th, 9th and 10th grade students had their projects selected to compete against those of other schools at the government’s NATIONAL STEAM IN ACTION SCHOOLS CHALLENGE COMPETITION on Thursday, January 29, 2024. The projects were related to Environmental Advocacy, Mental Wellness, and Renewable Solutions, and all were confidently pitched by the young ladies who proudly emerged as champions; winning the VOICE OF THE EARTH AWARD! The winning entry was an art piece depicting deforestation, and the judges commended the students for their clarity, articulation, and overall presentation during the pitching process.
Experiences such as this packed week of events significantly help to promote STEAM education among our young ladies and actively engage them in developing problem-solving, creativity, and innovative thinking. As we move forward, teachers will continue exploring new ways of incorporating STEAM-related projects where possible.
