The Supreme Ventures Foundation (SVF) recently hosted its annual Junior Creators Summer Robotics Camp, which ran from August 12 to 16 at the Ardenne High School.

This year’s camp, branded the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Olympics, brought together 80 to 100 children and concluded with an award ceremony which recognised the camp’s top performers. Facilitated by Halls of Learning, the camp’s curriculum was designed to ignite interest in STEAM among students in grades 4-6 in an Olympic fashion.

Throughout the week, participants from Waterford Primary School, Melrose Primary School, Independence City Primary, John Mills Primary, and wards of the state, alongside children of SVF staff engaged in eight (8) Olympic-styled events focused on Robotics, Engineering, Coding, and Computer Science, all aimed at developing their STEAM skills.

Over 40 hours were dedicated to developing concepts, preparing equipment and organising materials. Activities ranged from building land yachts, robots and windmill vehicles, to coding robots and completing each activity in groups of 4 in a relay fashion, similar to the Olympics. Halls of Learning also provided students with a workbook to support their exposure to fundamental Robotics and Engineering concepts.

SVF Director, Heather Goldson, shared, “At SVF, we recognise the crucial role that technology and robotics play in shaping the future of our young people. By engaging them at such an early age, we’re laying the groundwork for their future success in these fields. The enthusiasm and potential of these young minds have been incredible, and it reinforces our commitment to broadening STEAM education opportunities across Jamaica. It is incredibly fulfilling to support activities that nourish the intellect and creativity of Jamaica’s youth, especially those who may not otherwise have the means to do so. This camp exemplifies our dedication to fostering innovation and excellence among the next generation.”

The week-long camp also included a visit from Jamaican race car driver and JustBet Ambassador, Fraser McConnell, a “Get Up and Move” session with Trainfit, and an empowering session facilitated by Rise Life Jamaica, adding to the enriching experience.

Dr. Warren Thompson, Director of Children and Family Programmes at the Child Protection and Family Services Agency, expressed his admiration for the camp’s impact on the students. “The Junior Creators Robotics Camp hosted by the Supreme Ventures Foundation provides an invaluable opportunity for our youth, particularly those from underserved communities and vulnerable backgrounds, to engage with technology and STEAM education in a way that is both inspiring and transformative. The hands-on experience these children receive not only ignites their curiosity but also equips them with the skills necessary to navigate a rapidly evolving world. For many of our wards, participating in this camp opens doors to new possibilities, sparking an interest in fields they may have never considered before. This initiative by the Supreme Ventures Foundation in collaboration with Halls of Learning is a shining example of how we can create meaningful change by investing in the potential of our young people.”

During the award ceremony, hosted by Talia Soares, each participant received branded knapsacks, bottles, and lunch bags.

In an effort to further support the educational journey of the students, the Foundation also gifted a total of J$500,000 worth of Sangster’s Book vouchers to all students, while the top four campers were also awarded the SVF Robotics Scholarship, each valued at $50,000. 

Partnering with SVF’s Robotics Camp for another year was Halls of Learning, an educational services provider dedicated to developing STEM skills and empowering the lives of people through education since 2003.

Marvin Hall, Founder of Halls of Learning, detailed the importance of investing in STEAM education for Jamaica’s youth.

“The Junior Creators Robotics Camp, now in its seventh year, at the nexus of it wasn’t just about the technology, it was also about the creativity. Though students may only spend a week, the impact it has on their future is significant. It shows them what is possible in real life with their hands and with their own first-hand experience. Investing in STEAM education is important because we are living in a technology-driven world where devices communicate through coded instructions. To ensure jobs of the future and Jamaica’s continued growth it is important that there is a skill set in Jamaica, for us to be able to be competitive in a manufacturing and service sense as well as to understand that the more we invest in STEAM, STEM and robotics type of activities, the more emphasis we put on literacy and maths. We are proud to continue our partnership with SVF and I am happy for the ongoing investment in STEAM,” shared Marvin Hall.

The Supreme Ventures Foundation continues to be a driving force in empowering Jamaica’s youth through meaningful educational initiatives. The Junior Creators Summer Robotics Camp 2024 stands as a testament to SVF’s unwavering commitment to nurturing future leaders in technology and beyond.