Science Fair Foundation announces Science Week 2026 and participation in OECSRA Regional Super Challenge

GREAT BAY--The St. Maarten Science Fair Foundation (SMSFF) is gearing up for an active March 2026 with the return of Science Week, the island’s participation in the first annual OECSRA Regional Super Challenge, and the Science Week Awards Ceremony. Science Week 2026 will take place from March 9–13 under the theme “Innovate for Wellbeing.” St. Maarten will then participate in the OECSRA Regional Super Challenge in the British Virgin Islands from March 16–20, followed by the Science Week Awards Ceremony on March 21, 2026.

Science Week 2026 will feature a series of events designed to showcase student talent and promote science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. The Science Week Art Competition invites secondary students to create artwork reflecting the theme “Innovate for Wellbeing.” The winning piece will be featured on all official Science Week promotional materials. The week will officially open on March 9 with an Opening Ceremony that includes keynote remarks and a STEAM expert panel discussion. On March 10, secondary students will participate in STEAM Career Field Trips to local companies and institutions, where they will be exposed to a variety of career paths in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

The National Science Fair Exhibitions will be held on March 12–13. During these two days, students will present innovative projects across four categories: Natural Sciences, Computer/Software/Robotics, Environmental Science, and Social & Behavioral Science. The public, including primary schools, will be invited to attend the exhibitions to view student projects and observe robotics demonstrations.

“Science Week continues to be a meaningful platform for students to explore science, creativity, and innovation,” said Dr. Rolinda Carter, President of SMSFF and St. Maarten’s Representative to the OECS Robotics Association (OECSRA). “It helps students think critically, solve problems creatively, and develop ideas that can strengthen our island’s wellbeing and resilience.”

In addition to the local program, St. Maarten has been invited to participate in the first annual OECSRA Regional Super Challenge, themed “Innovating for a Sustainable Caribbean Future,” with the subtheme “Robotics for a Cleaner Coastline and a Sustainable Caribbean.” A delegation of two students and one coach will represent St. Maarten at the challenge in the British Virgin Islands from March 16–20. Secondary schools may nominate up to three students ages 14–18 who demonstrate interest or potential in robotics, coding, engineering, or STEAM problem solving. Students selected to represent St. Maarten will receive specialized training in early 2026 in preparation for the competition.

“This regional invitation is a historic opportunity for our students,” added Dr. Carter. “I am proud to support a team that will join other OECS countries in using robotics to address environmental challenges.”

Schools may pre register for Science Week and submit OECSRA Regional Super Challenge nominations using the official SMSFF registration form. SMSFF also welcomes volunteers who are interested in science, technology, innovation, or youth mentorship to join its team. Persons who wish to contribute can sign up via volunteer.sx.

The St. Maarten Science Fair Foundation promotes science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics among St. Maarten’s youth. Through Science Week, the annual science fair, robotics programs, and other educational initiatives, SMSFF provides meaningful opportunities for students to explore, innovate, and develop skills for the future.

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