Primary and secondary students have been presented with the Best Experiment and Best Model Awards for their participation in the 2026 National Science Fair the STEAM in Agriculture and Fisheries Excellence Award.

The STEAM in Agriculture and Fisheries Excellence Award celebrates outstanding innovation and creativity and recognises projects that effectively integrate the principles of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) to address challenges and opportunities in agriculture and fisheries. 

The awards presented on Friday, March 20, honours the future leaders who inspire change within our communities for their unique ideas and experiments, demonstrating their passion and commitment to advancing the fields of agriculture and fisheries in the Virgin Islands. 

Director of Agriculture and Fisheries Mr. Theodore E James said winning this award not only acknowledges academic excellence but also fosters a deeper appreciation for STEAM education as a vital tool for innovation in our critical industries.

Mr. James extended congratulations to all students who participated in the National Science Fair, especially those whose projects and experiments advanced solutions in agriculture and fisheries. He said, “Their curiosity, discipline, and creativity translated into practical ideas. From climate-smart farming and soil health to sustainable aquaculture and responsible fisheries management that support food security and protect our natural resources.”

Mr James further commended the teachers, mentors, and families who guided the students' efforts. He encouraged all students to join next year’s competition and to explore STEAM—science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, where ideas can drive innovation, strengthen communities, and shape a more resilient future for the world.

The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries thanks all students who participated in the 2026 National Science Fair, especially those who focused their experiments and models on agriculture and fisheries. Special thanks to the coordinators of the National Science Fair for allowing the Department to sponsor these awards.

The 2026 STEAM in Agriculture and Fisheries Excellence Award winners are:

Best Model – Primary 

Josiah Soriano and Gevhonni John 

Jost Van Dyke Primary School

Project: Hydroponic Garden

Best Experiment – Primary

Tiffany Faulkner and Amiah Chang 

Claudia Creque Educational Centre 

Project: From Waste to Grace - Aquaponics vs Hydroponics

Best Model – Secondary

Ava Ghiorse Robinson 

Cedar International School

Project: Biopot

Best Experiment – Secondary

Zuri Samuel 

Cedar International School

Project: Biochar Plant Experiment