Students Honoured for Steam Agriculture
Primary and secondary students were awarded the STEAM in Agriculture and Fisheries Excellence Awards at the 2026 National Science Fair on March 20. Winners showcased projects from hydroponics and aquaponics to biochar, highlighting youth-led innovation aimed at strengthening food security and sustainable fisheries in the Virgin Islands.
Primary and secondary students from across the Virgin Islands were recognised on Friday, March 20, with the STEAM in Agriculture and Fisheries Excellence Awards at the 2026 National Science Fair. The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries presented Best Experiment and Best Model awards to pupils whose projects applied Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) to address challenges in agriculture and fisheries.
The award celebrates innovation and creativity that offers practical solutions for the territory’s food systems and marine resources. Director of Agriculture and Fisheries Theodore E. James said the prizes acknowledge academic achievement while encouraging a deeper appreciation for STEAM education as an engine of local innovation.
He noted, "Their curiosity, discipline, and creativity translated into practical ideas. From climate-smart farming and soil health to sustainable aquaculture and responsible fisheries management that support food security and protect our natural resources." Mr. James also commended the teachers, mentors and families who guided the students.
Projects recognised reflect priorities familiar to BVI residents: boosting food security, building climate resilience, and protecting fisheries. Small-island communities face limited arable land, import dependence and vulnerability to extreme weather; school-led experiments in hydroponics, aquaponics and soil-improvement techniques offer models that can be scaled or adapted for household and community use.
The 2026 STEAM in Agriculture and Fisheries Excellence Award winners are listed below: Josiah Soriano and Gevhonni John — Jost Van Dyke Primary School. Best Experiment – Primary Tiffany Faulkner and Amiah Chang — Claudia Creque Educational Centre. Project: From Waste to Grace – Aquaponics vs Hydroponics.
Best Model – Secondary Cedar International School — Project: Biochar Plant Experiment. Best Experiment – Secondary The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries thanked all students who entered the National Science Fair and extended special thanks to the event coordinators for allowing the Department to sponsor the awards.
Director James encouraged students to take part in next year’s competition and to continue exploring STEAM fields where ideas can drive innovation, strengthen communities and help shape a more resilient future for the Virgin Islands. For BVI residents, the awards underline the value of school programmes that teach practical skills for local food production and marine stewardship.
The Department said it will continue to support initiatives that translate student research into community benefits and urged schools and families to keep fostering hands-on STEAM learning.
Primary source: BVI Government