ST. MAARTEN (April 1, 2025) – The St. Kitts and Nevis Robotics Association (SKNRA) announces a collaborative effort with the Sint Maarten National Commission for UNESCO and the St. Maarten Science Fair Foundation to expand STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) opportunities for students in St. Maarten. The partnership was solidified during a meeting held this morning, bringing together notable leaders and educators committed to empowering youth through hands-on learning and international engagement.

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Attendees included H.E. Dr. Ricardo R. Neil, Founder and Chairman of both the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States Robotics Association (OECSRA) and SKNRA; Ms. Marcellia Henry, Secretary General of the Sint Maarten National Commission for UNESCO; Dr. Rolinda Carter, President of the St. Maarten Science Fair Foundation, accompanied by board members; and Ms. Barbara Cocks, Student Care Coordinator at the St. Maarten Academy VBC. Discussions centered on a strategic approach to fostering innovation and technical proficiency among St. Maarten’s youth, with three key initiatives.

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This hands-on program will immerse students in robotics, coding, and problem-solving activities, laying a strong foundation for future studies and careers in technology.

Under the new partnership, a delegation from St. Maarten will attend the FIRST Global Robotics Olympics as guests and volunteers. By observing international teams and assisting event organizers, representatives will gain practical insights to strengthen local robotics initiatives and elevate the island’s competitiveness in future global contests.

Designed to cultivate leadership and critical thinking, this program will assign youth to leadership roles within community-focused STEAM projects. Participants will develop skills in project management, mentorship, and innovative problem-solving while serving as role models for their peers.

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H.E. Dr. Ricardo R. Neil, Founder and Chairman of OECSRA and SKNRA, highlighted the significance of the collaboration:

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“This partnership marks a pivotal moment in St. Maarten’s educational journey. By aligning our efforts with UNESCO and the St. Maarten Science Fair Foundation, we are poised to create dynamic opportunities that not only spark students’ curiosity but also position them as future innovators in the region.”

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Ms. Marcellia Henry, Secretary General of the Sint Maarten National Commission for UNESCO, commended the collective efforts (paraphrase):

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“Strengthening STEAM education through partnership underscores our commitment to developing well-rounded, globally engaged learners. We look forward to the positive impact these initiatives will have on the youth of St. Maarten.”

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Dr. Rolinda Carter and her board members from the St. Maarten Science Fair Foundation contributed valuable insights on local educational needs, and discussed how these initiatives align with their mission to stimulate an interest in STEAM on the island beyond its flagship event, the National St. Maarten Science Fair. Ms. Barbara Cocks, Student Care Coordinator at St. Maarten Academy VBC, emphasized how such programs can bolster both academic and personal development for students across the island.

Through these targeted initiatives, the SKNRA, OECSRA, UNESCO, and St. Maarten Science Fair Foundation envision a thriving STEAM ecosystem that empowers local students to excel in emerging fields. By combining international exposure, practical training, and leadership development, the collaboration aims to nurture a generation of problem-solvers capable of driving sustainable growth on the island.

For details on supporting the St. Kitts and Nevis Robotics Association’s initiatives.