Twenty-seven secondary school students from across Dominica are taking part in the inaugural Nature Island Innovators Robotics Camp, a week-long residential programme designed to introduce young people to robotics, coding and emerging technologies.
The camp is being hosted at the Portsmouth Secondary School by the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Dominica in collaboration with Innovate My World, bringing together students from five secondary schools for practical training in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Coordinator of the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Dominica said the programme targets young people between the ages of 14 and 24 through activities that promote skills development, physical recreation, community service and adventurous journeys.
This year’s collaboration with Innovate My World has expanded that mission by exposing students to robotics and coding while also helping them build leadership and problem-solving abilities.
The camp has attracted 27 participants, including 22 boys and six girls, representing St. Mary’s Academy, Zion Secondary School, Portsmouth Secondary School, North East Comprehensive School and Castle Bruce Secondary School.
Organizers said the programme goes well beyond assembling robots. Participants also take part in self-development sessions, cultural activities, field trips and creative exercises intended to strengthen teamwork, communication and critical thinking.
Instructors reported that the students advanced more quickly than expected, with many teams completing the construction of their robots and beginning programming exercises on the first day.
One facilitator said the rapid progress demonstrated the enthusiasm and potential of Dominican students when given practical opportunities to engage with technology.
Students participating in the camp also spoke positively about the experience, describing it as an opportunity to strengthen teamwork while learning how to build and programme robots.
Several participants said previous exposure to coding helped them guide their teammates, while others highlighted the collaborative environment that allowed every member of the group to contribute.
The camp concludes on Saturday with a closing ceremony where participants will receive awards in various categories. Organizers hope the experience will encourage more young Dominicans to pursue future studies and careers in technology, engineering, software development and other STEM fields.
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