Students Recognised for Achievements in EOPP Competition by SRC

Several students have been recognised for their remarkable achievements and creativity in the 2024 Essay, Oratory, Poster and Performing Arts (EOPP) Competition.

The awards ceremony was held recently at the Stella Maris Preparatory School in St. Andrew, where 31 individuals were presented with trophies, certificates, medals, electronic and gift cards, and baskets.

An annual competition hosted by the Scientific Research Council (SRC), EOPP provides a platform for students to contribute to the ongoing discourse around the transformative power of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

Speaking at the ceremony, Team Leader of the Analytical Services Department at the SRC, Ray-Anne Shaw-Phillips, charged the awardees to become real world superheroes.

“All of you possess a unique power to transform the world around you. Do not just see challenges as obstacles but as opportunities for innovation,” she said.

Approximately 117 entries from 50 schools across the island were received this year under the theme ‘STEMING into the future’.

The entries explored ways that STEM can shape the future through technological breakthroughs, healthcare advancements, improved living standards, job creation and sustainable food production.

Winners in the essay and oratory categories have been honoured for their thought-provoking narratives and eloquent expressions of ideas.

These include Giovanni Heavens of Chetwood Memorial Primary, Kevina Rowe of Maggotty High School, and Toshaunae Norris of the University of the West Indies for the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, respectively.

Other winners included Riley Lowe of Belair Early Childhood and Preparatory School, who came out on top in the poster category for primary schools, while Nevia Williamson of Enid Bennett High School won for secondary schools; and Tanakay Clayton of St. Joseph’s Teachers’ College emerged victorious in the tertiary level.

Cross Keys High School and Free Hill Primary were successful in the performing arts category.

The SRC is an agency of the Ministry of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport, mandated to foster the development of scientific research, serve as a repository of scientific information, and facilitate the development, application, transfer and or improvement of technology of such research for the country’s benefit.

It also serves as an enabler in the creation of new industries and supports technical processes of stakeholders.