Some 50 eager faces lit up with wonder as they explored robotics, conducted experiments, and engaged with leading scientists at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Science Festival—all thanks to International Game Technology’s (IGT) groundbreaking After School Advantage (ASA) programme.

The company deliberately selected March 14 for the students’ participation, tapping into the global celebration of Science Education Day and Albert Einstein’s birthday to inspire these future innovators.

“The After School Advantage (ASA) programme is more than just an initiative—it’s a catalyst for transformation. By combining technology, mentorship, and real-world exposure, we are equipping Caribbean students with the skills and confidence to thrive in a digital economy,” said Debbie Green, General Manager of IGT Jamaica.

The ASA programme has been instrumental in addressing the digital divide in the region. After School Advantage (ASA) is the company’s flagship community initiative, devoted to providing youth with access to technology at digital learning centres in communities where IGT operates. The program ensures students have access to participate in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) educational opportunities while developing the knowledge and skills for the jobs of tomorrow. 

Since 2011, IGT and its subsidiaries have opened 40 ASA computer labs across the English-speaking Caribbean. As part of the Company’s ongoing commitment to supporting its global communities, IGT aims to continually enhance the technological awareness of students and prepare them to contribute to the social and infrastructural development of the Caribbean.

The partnership with the UWI Science Festival represents an expansion of ASA’s impact, providing students with immersive experiences that complement their classroom learning. Professor Tannecia Stephenson, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology and lead on the Science Fair, highlighted the value of this collaboration: “Corporate sponsorships like IGT’s are vital to expanding the Science Festival’s impact. By providing access to hands-on STEM activities, IGT helps inspire students—especially in underserved schools—to explore science’s possibilities. This support fuels curiosity, encourages innovation, and strengthens the foundation for future scientific advancements in Jamaica and beyond.”

The UWI Science Festival offers a diverse range of activities designed to engage students at various levels of interest and aptitude. Participants have the opportunity to conduct experiments, observe demonstrations, and interact with industry professionals, all of which contribute to a comprehensive learning experience.

“Our vision is to inspire students to pursue careers in STEM by bridging the gap between education and industry. Through ASA, we provide access to cutting-edge learning experiences that prepare them for a future driven by innovation,” Green explained.

The Faculty of Science and Technology at UWI has developed a robust framework for student engagement beyond the festival.

According to Professor Stephenson, “The Faculty has a vibrant external engagement mechanism that fosters building scientific inquiry; that promotes curiosity and provides tools that our youth can use in pursuit of their own goals and dreams. Some of these ongoing programmes include JamCoders (annual summer camp on coding/programming); FORECAST (research conference hosted by tertiary level institutions across Jamaica and the Caribbean showcasing Caribbean Science), CAPE Workshops (supporting development of competencies in different disciplines at the CAPE level), internships and numerous faculty based clubs and societies that provide interactive and practical experiences for students. The festival is another engagement in this systematic programme of outreach and development for students and teachers.”

Through these combined efforts, IGT and UWI are creating a sustainable ecosystem for STEM education in the Caribbean, one that not only exposes students to the possibilities of science and technology but also provides them with the tools and support they need to pursue careers in these fields.