Young innovators shine at STEAM exhibition

The next generation of scientists, engineers, and tech innovators took centre stage at Whistles Children’s School Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) Exhibition, where pupils showcased groundbreaking projects in robotics, coding, and interdisciplinary learning.

The event demonstrated how STEAM education is preparing students for the future through creativity and hands-on learning.

From smart glasses, delivery robots to Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered car models, housing estate, air vacuum, among others, the students impressed educators, parents, and industry experts with their ability to merge technology and creativity in solving real-world challenges.

An education consultant to Whistles School, Mrs. Adeyinka Adeniyi, emphasised the importance of introducing students to STEAM early.

“Our mission is to ‘catch them young.’ Education today is driven by AI and technology, and we want our students to develop a scientific mindset early.”

Adeniyi, who disclosed that the exhibition was by year three to five pupils, noted that exposing children to STEAM concept at a young age not only enhance their interest in science and technology, but also encourage innovation that could shape the world.

“This exhibition will inspire students to fall in love with science, coding, and technology. Ideas change the world, and when children are exposed to this early, they develop the confidence to create and innovate,” Adeniyi added.

Speaking on government’s support for STEAM education, Senior Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor on Basic and Secondary Education, Opeyemi Eniola, highlighted the state’s commitment to expanding STEAM learning across both private and public schools.

He disclosed that the STEAM programme is not only restricted to private schools, as government has introduced same in the state public schools.

Already, he said students from Lagos State are now representing Nigeria in international STEAM competitions, proving that the initiative is already yielding positive results.

“We are playing our part as a government, and we urge schools and parents to get involved too,” Eniola added.

For the young participants, the exhibition was an opportunity to turn their imagination into reality.

Mercy Bassey, a Year five student, who built a delivery robot, expressed excitement about her project.

“The STEAM exhibition is an amazing experience. It made me realise that I can create anything as long as I put my mind to it,” she said.

Ethan Adenuga, another Year five student, who designed smart glasses and a robot car, shared his enthusiasm for innovation.

“I feel so proud of what I’ve created. STEAM projects help develop our creativity and innovation and allow us build things that can shape the future,” Adenuga said.