Over 200 primary and secondary school students wowed government representatives and officials from the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) with their impressive projects and innovative ideas at this year’s Renewable Rivalry National Competition.
The national initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries and led by the University of Trinidad and Tobago’s Outreach and Industry Relations Unit introduced nearly one thousand primary and secondary school students to a dynamic virtual classroom experience designed to spark early interest in sustainable energy solutions.
Minister in the Ministry of Energy, Ernesto Kesar, highlighted the programme’s success, noting that it not only inspired young minds but also provided specialised training to 269 primary and secondary school teachers across the country.
“Organised seven community outreach sessions and conducted student-centred webinars on energy and energy efficiency. Furthermore, today we celebrate the successful launch and completion of the Renewable Rivalry Competition. I extend my deep congratulations and gratitude to the University of Trinidad and Tobago for their commitment and hard work in advancing this very important endeavour.”
According to UTT’s Vice-President of Research, Academics and Student Affairs, Professor Rean Maharaj, the project exemplifies the power of collaboration among institutions, ministries, and communities, highlighting several key outcomes.
“To the community outreach sessions in seven regions to the upcoming distribution of 450 teaching and learning resource kits, this initiative is a powerful demonstration of national alignment and collective action.”
Minister of Tertiary Education and Skills Training, Professor Prakash Persad, expressed pride in the programme’s impact, adding that Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, a former Minister of Education, also values the meaningful work being done.
“To point out and to bring to the fore again that UTT is at the forefront of setting the baseline emissions database for carbon emissions in this country, and the researchers are here. Dr. Boodlal is here, Professor Maharaj is here. I think we should give them a round of applause.”
While many students and teachers were honoured for their efforts, a few stood out. Keshav Jaggan of McBean Hindu Primary and Ihsaan Soobrattee of San Fernando Central Secondary School earned top individual awards. In the team category, Parlatuvier Anglican Primary and Lakshmi Girls’ Hindu College claimed first place for their innovative projects.