Sat | Oct 11, 2025

SCATE Camp fulfils mandate of integrating science and technology

Published:Saturday | October 11, 2025 | 12:06 AMKeisha Hill/Senior Gleaner Writer
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A SCATE camper powers on a solar fan reassembled during a hands-on renewable energy session led by facilitator Paul Russell, head of energy solutions at ISRATECH. Looking on is Alyssa Jolly, as the activity unfolded at the UWI Faculty of Engineering.
Contributed Photos
A SCATE camper powers on a solar fan reassembled during a hands-on renewable energy session led by facilitator Paul Russell, head of energy solutions at ISRATECH. Looking on is Alyssa Jolly, as the activity unfolded at the UWI Faculty of Engineering.
Colin Christie, certified energy manager, demonstrates how a solar panel works to SCATE campers during the one-week Sustainable Engineering Camp for Teens, held at the UWI Faculty of Engineering.
Colin Christie, certified energy manager, demonstrates how a solar panel works to SCATE campers during the one-week Sustainable Engineering Camp for Teens, held at the UWI Faculty of Engineering.
SCATE campers and Caribbean Cement Company (CEMEX) staff share an exciting moment during a field trip to CEMEX’s sustainability project on the final day of the SCATE Sustainable Engineering Camp for Teens.
SCATE campers and Caribbean Cement Company (CEMEX) staff share an exciting moment during a field trip to CEMEX’s sustainability project on the final day of the SCATE Sustainable Engineering Camp for Teens.
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SIXTY STUDENTS from high schools in Kingston, St Andrew and St Catherine, including 15 at-risk youth, participated in the Summer Camp Adventures with Technology and Education (SCATE) Sustainable Engineering Camp for Teens, held at the Faculty of Engineering at The University of the West Indies, Mona.

For one week, the students, ages 13 to 19 years, were immersed in sustainability and engineering training, where they were introduced to practical skills in engineering and innovation. With a myriad of speakers and presentations, the participants were also inspired to see climate action as a viable career path.

The camp, which was free of cost to the students, also promoted teamwork, critical thinking and leadership. Amalea Jones, founder and operations director at SCATE, said engineering challenges students to analyse, experiment, and adapt, sharpening their ability to tackle complex, real-world problems.

“Introducing engineering and innovation to students is vital because it fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, cultivates creativity and a passion for learning, and prepares them to be future innovators in a technology-driven world,” Jones said.

“These experiences allow students to develop valuable collaboration and communication skills, build confidence, and connect abstract concepts to real-world applications, giving them an advantage in college, careers, and beyond,” she added.

Some of the presentation topics included; The Climate Crisis – How Engineering Can Make a Difference; Climate Change 101, Engineering for Climate Solutions, Renewable Energy (Solar & Wind), Smart Cities, Water Scarcity, Vertical Farming & Agriculture, Moving Toward a Low-Carbon Future and Waste-to-Energy, Circular Economy.

The students were also actively engaged in building mini solar panel circuits; where they were also able to calculate their carbon footprint and identify reduction strategies. They also built a DIY, rainwater harvesting and filtration system, and used recyclable materials to create an innovate product in a ‘recycling for innovation’ challenge.

The students were also able to witness first-hand sustainable manufacturing and climate-resilient agricultural practices during field trips to Caribbean Cement Company in Rockfort, and Caribbean Broilers in Clarendon.

Co-founder at SCATE, Simone Walker, said innovation is rooted in challenges and curiosity; engineering education provides the perfect environment to explore new ideas and develop inventive solutions.

“Students gain self-confidence by figuring out how the world works and by making strategic decisions in projects, preparing them to move forward independently. Research and innovative activities awaken inquisitiveness, inspiring students to ask questions and explore uncharted territory,” Walker said.

Tywon Comrie, participant in the 15 to 18 years age group, said he was excited to participate in the camp, where he had the opportunity not only to interact with his peers, but also learn about innovation and engineering.

“I learned so much about climate change and our environment. I will definitely do my part to help the environment. The activities were hands-on and awesome, and this was my favourite part. I like to do things with my hands. I am already looking forward to next year,” Comrie said.

Kristoff Clark of Wolmer’s Boys’ School, and Matthew-Kymani Smith of St George’s College, participants in the 13 to 15 age group, were two of the top students in that category. “It was challenging at times, especially the activities, but we learned a lot. The sessions that we participated in were also very competitive, but we worked together and won almost every challenge,” both said.

Meanwhile, Alyssa Jolly, project lead, CSR at RUBiS Energy Jamaica, title sponsors for the camp, was elated that the students had the opportunity to be engaged in innovative activities.

“The use of technology, especially in education, provides access to vital educational programmes. By supporting youth and technology challenges, RUBiS inspires creativity and helps nurture the next generation of innovators,” McCalla said.

“Investments in technology and infrastructure directly improve the quality of life for community members by enhancing educational opportunities and access to information,” she added.

keisha.hill@gleanerjm.com