BBUC Ignites Young Minds with Innovations in STEM at Its Premier Summer Camp
This summer, the Bahamas Baptist University College (BBUC) has embarked on an exciting journey to ignite the sparks of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship among young Bahamian minds. Through its first-ever STEMsational Summer Camp, BBUC has introduced children to a world where science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) could expand their horizons and open up new paths to success.
The camp concluded on a high note this past Tuesday, with a closing ceremony that not only celebrated the accomplishments of the attendees but also showcased the remarkable projects they developed. The initiative, according to Principal Dr. Theresa Adderley-Smith, received an overwhelming response, encouraging the institution to consider organizing more such enriching programs in the future.
Over the span of four weeks, camp participants, some as young as nine, were immersed in a vibrant curriculum designed to challenge and stimulate their minds. One of the highlights was the opportunity to build robots from the ground up, program them with unique commands, and control them using smartphones or tablets. The sense of achievement was palpable as one camper shared his dream of one day creating robots to aid in healthcare settings.
Another innovative component of the STEMsational Summer Camp was the collaboration with Tennessee Tech University, which introduced the campers to the realms of 3D Printing and Virtual Reality. Under the guidance of Muhammad Alshaikh Ali from Tennessee Tech, youngsters were taught how to transform their imaginative ideas into tangible objects using 3D printing technology. This skill not only paves the way for future inventors but also equips them with the knowledge to produce prototypes that can attract potential investors.
Entrepreneurship was another critical aspect of the camp, with instructor Paul Taylor Jr. leading the way. Campers were encouraged to develop and present their business ideas, covering aspects such as naming, operational costs, marketing strategies, sales, and profits. The parents and attendees were thoroughly impressed by the campers’ ability to articulate their visions with confidence and clarity.
Dr. Adderley-Smith emphasized the impact of the camp on the students, noting their enthusiasm and motivation throughout the program. From 3D printing edible creations to programming functional robots and devising comprehensive business plans, the camp has truly been a breeding ground for future innovators and entrepreneurs.
The camp’s success was also acknowledged by Rev. Dr. William Thompson, president of the Bahamas National Baptist Missionary and Educational Convention, who was present at the closing ceremony. He commended the efforts of BBUC in fostering a new learning environment that encourages creativity and innovation among the youth. With new academic programs like Nursing and hybrid car technology on the horizon, BBUC is set to become a beacon of progressive education in the Bahamas.
As the campers were awarded with medals of participation and trophies for exceptional achievement, it was clear that the STEMsational Summer Camp had made an indelible mark on their educational journey. BBUC’s commitment to “Be you at BBUC” has certainly set the stage for a future where these young minds can explore, innovate, and succeed.
