Approximately 100 students from primary and secondary schools across Kingston and St. Andrew gained firsthand exposure to cutting-edge technology during the third staging of the University of Technology, Jamaica’s (UTech, Ja.) STEM Summer Camp, held at its Papine Campus from July 20–31 and at its Western Campus from July 13–24.

 Hosted by the University’s Department of Community Service & Development, the third staging of the two-week camp was executed under the theme, “Resilient Futures: Empowering Jamaican Youth Through STEM Innovation for Climate Action, Community Impact and Sustainable Development.” 

The camp welcomed students between the ages of 11 and 16, providing immersive, hands-on learning experiences in Animation, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Engineering Design, Mathematics, Science and the Environment and Career Exploration. Participants explored emerging technologies while developing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills during the daily sessions.

A key feature of this year’s staging was its stronger emphasis on practical, hands-on learning as the students assembled robots and witnessed automated technologies in action.  Students also participated in a field trip facilitated by the Jamaica Defence Force to its Coast Guard base, HMJS Cagway, located in Port Royal. There, the participants gained insight into the operations aboard military vessels and how engineering and other STEM-related disciplines played a major role in national security. 

Paulton Gordon, Director, Department of Community Service & Development, UTech, Jamaica, explained that this year’s camp was aimed at getting a lot more kids interested in STEM and understanding the practical component of it. He added that “The programme also helped to create social cohesion by extending the learning beyond the classroom to real-world operations.” Commenting on the educational field trips, Mr Gordon noted that the experience was intended to provide the youngsters with insights into how specialised STEM knowledge is used in professional environments.

 Darion Renford, Administrative Support, Department of Community Service, encouraged the students to embrace the career and business opportunities ahead as they emerge with new knowledge and skills from the camp.

The UTech, Jamaica STEM Summer Camp forms part of the institution’s commitment to preparing young people for an AI-enabled future by strengthening STEM education, expanding digital literacy and fostering innovation among the next generation.