The handover of cash prizes for the 2nd Annual STEMGuyana Scratch coding competition sponsored under the IDB Labs funded Learning Pods Project took place last week. Team members and coaches eagerly gathered to receive their well-deserved recognition. The event was marked by joy and enthusiasm, as participants reveled in their achievements and expressed their ambitions for future competitions.
Among the standout performers was Team Green from GIA (Georgetown International Academy) which emerged as the first-place winner, and they expressed pride in the team’s performance. It was their inaugural coding competition in Guyana, and their enthusiasm was a testament to their dedication. While some members had been exposed to robotics and coding during their summer vacations in the United States, they expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to participate in similar programs and competitions in their homeland. This success highlighted the potential that exists within our own borders, and it serves as an inspiration for others to embark on similar journeys.
The two teams from QC (Queen’s College) which secured second place consisted of students who were new to scratch coding software and the art of creating animations. Their enthusiasm was palpable as they proudly represented their school and expressed their keen interest in participating in more STEMGuyana competitions in the future. The event served as a catalyst for their passion, igniting a desire to explore the world of coding further.
Aurora and Lima Sands Pods both teams from STEMGuyana’s Learning Pod program secured second and third place respectively. These exceptional region 2 teams were are singled out for their outstanding performance because their students were less experienced and younger than the average student participant in the 2023 competition, proving that age does not define talent. Both teams were proud of their
achievements and accepted their awards with unbridled excitement. The region 2 members and coaches also expressed their gratitude for the unwavering support and pride shown by their parents. Afia Alexander, a volunteer and coach of the Aurora team, spoke passionately about the growth she witnessed in the students. From having limited knowledge of scratch coding to creating their own animations, their progress was a testament to their determination and the effectiveness of the competition.
Furthermore, Lake Mainstay was honored with the Director’s Award for having the highest number of
submissions from a single location. Coach Ms. Sharmala Singh extended her heartfelt appreciation to the STEMGuyana team for acknowledging their efforts. This recognition not only validated their hard work but also inspired them to continue their journey in the world of coding and technology.
The participants and coaches from all teams share a common sentiment of hope and excitement for the future. Their experiences at the STEMGuyana Scratch coding competition have fostered a sense of camaraderie and a thirst for further growth and development. It is through such platforms that we can nurture the potential of our talented youth, empowering them to become leaders in the field of STEM.
The handover of prizes at the competition not only celebrated the achievements of these exceptional young minds but also highlighted the importance of cultivating a passion for STEM education within Guyana. As we witness the enthusiasm and drive of these students, we are reminded of the limitless possibilities that lie ahead. STEMGuyana, through its partnerships with the IDBLab and Tullow Oil continues to demonstrate a commitment to fostering innovation and creativity in all communities across Guyana and together these organizations continue to pave the way for a brighter future in science and technology for talented Guyanese children.
