Education
Hon. E. Jay Saunders, Minister of Innovation, Technology and Energy Undertakes Initiative to Transform High School Science Projects into Commercial Ventures
PRESS RELEASE
FROM THE MINISTRY OF INNOVATION,
TECHNOLOGY AND ENERGY
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Thursday, 8 May 2025: In an unprecedented move, Hon. E. Jay Saunders, Minister
of Innovation, Technology and Energy, is undertaking an initiative to transform high school science projects into viable commercial businesses, inspired by successful models from renowned educational institutions, such as Stanford, Harvard, and the University of Toronto.
On Wednesday, 7 May 2025, Hon. Saunders visited Holy Family Academy Catholic School in Kew Town, Providenciales, to meet with Rev. Luis Orlando González, Head Director, Ms. María Elena Vázquez, Principal, Mrs. Amor Villanueva, Science Teacher, and the students behind the innovative project “Brics from Sargassum.” This project, which won first place at the recent FortisTCI National Science and Technology Fair, involves converting problematic sargassum seaweed into sustainable eco-bricks.
Expressing confidence in the commercial potential of the initiative, Hon. Saunders stated, “Not because such an undertaking hasn’t been done before means it shouldn’t be tried. Our young students have exceptional talent, and this initiative will provide them with opportunities similar to those at leading universities. Even if we don’t achieve immediate commercial success, the invaluable lessons learned will vastly increase our likelihood of success in future attempts.” While at Holy Family Academy Catholic School, Hon. Saunders also took time out to visit all the students in their classes where he stressed the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, particular the positive outcomes achieved when girls pursue careers in STEM fields.
Holy Family Academy is one of two schools whose projects from the FortisTCI National Science and Technology Fair 2025 have been identified by Hon. Saunders as having commercial potential. Hon. Saunders will next visit Raymond Gardiner High School in North Caicos, whose project “North Caicos Beach Bricks” secured second place at the FortisTCI Science Fair. The school’s innovative approach focuses on enhancing the strength and durability of eco-bricks made from recycled plastic and glass bottles, addressing critical sustainability challenges.
“As part of this initiative, I’m encouraging the schools to outsource the preparation of the commercial and financial business plans to their business and economic classes. This way, more students will gain real-world entrepreneurial experience, positioning them as leaders in sustainable business practices,” Hon. Saunders stated.
This initiative promises potential financial benefits for schools, including revenue from licenses and profits from successful
commercialisation. “Through this programme, we’re not just supporting student innovation — we’re investing in the future prosperity of the Turks and Caicos Islands,” Hon. Saunders emphasised. “This undertaking has the potential to generate economic growth, inspire young entrepreneurs, and set a foundation for sustainable industry development.”
Hon. Saunders underscored the importance of collaboration, innovation, and resilience, reaffirming his commitment to providing the necessary resources and mentorship to turn these student innovations into profitable, sustainable businesses.
Bahamas Information Services
GRAND BAHAMA, The Bahamas — On Saturday, August 23, 2025, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry for Grand Bahama and Member of Parliament for West Grand Bahama and Bimini, Kingsley Smith along with Deputy Director of Education for the Grand Bahama, Bimini, and The Cays District, Michelle Bowleg toured Holmes Rock Junior High School to assess ongoing progress and ensure the project remains on track to welcome students for the new academic term in September.
Following the tour, Smith expressed optimism regarding the ongoing progress, stating, “Having toured the site and seeing the work that is
being done on the weekend, shows the commitment and dedication to getting it completed.”
He also noted that after discussions with the contractors, he was assured that with sufficient manpower and around-the-clock work, the project remains on track for completion by September 1, 2025.
“One of our underlying goals is really access, so we are happy that the school will be up and ready for our students,” said Bowleg.
She highlighted that several zoom meetings were held with parents to keep them informed about key updates including booklists, uniforms, and staffing. According to Bowleg, feedback from parents has been overwhelmingly positive.
“It is a beautiful facility, one that parents will be very proud of, and the entire West Grand Bahama community,” she added.
(BIS Photos/Danielle Rollon)
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