Primary school students today concluded their participation in the educational marine robotics project at the onshore facilities of the Oceanic Platform of the Canary Islands (PLOCAN), presenting the prototypes they have designed and built while developing knowledge and skills in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM).
The initiative has been developed by PLOCAN with funding from the Gran Canaria Island Council and in collaboration with the STEAM Area for the Promotion of Scientific Vocations and Creativity of the Department of Education, Vocational Training, Physical Activity and Sports of the Government of the Canary Islands.
The final events of the Edubótica Marina project, held within the framework of the EDUROVs project, took place on 16 and 17 June in collaboration with the STEAM Area of the Directorate-General for Educational Planning, Inclusion and Innovation of the Government of the Canary Islands. The events brought together a representative group of 480 Primary and Secondary school students from Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, Fuerteventura and Tenerife.
Raúl García Brink, Councillor for Environment, Climate, Energy and Knowledge of the Gran Canaria Island Council, attended the presentation of the prototypes and highlighted the importance of the initiative, noting that it “brings science, technology and innovation closer to students in a practical and motivating way, encouraging scientific vocations from an early age”.
He also emphasised that “the Gran Canaria Island Council remains committed to supporting projects that help develop the talent of our young people and strengthen a society based on knowledge, sustainability and innovation”.
PLOCAN has been promoting these activities for the past fourteen years through the EDUROVs project, funded by the Gran Canaria Island Council. The initiative is aimed at fostering scientific and technological vocations and developing STEAM skills by introducing Canary Islands students to marine robotics.
Representatives of Secondary schools, comprising 210 students, opened the project presentation sessions on 16 June. The programme concluded today with the participation of a further representative group of 270 Primary school pupils.
Throughout both days, participating teams presented and tested the prototypes developed during the academic year, applying knowledge related to robotics, programming, electronics and marine technology. The project also requires a broad understanding of the marine environment and oceanography. The events provided an opportunity for schools to exchange experiences and showcase the work carried out by both students and teachers in the field of educational innovation.
The initiative further reinforces the commitment of PLOCAN, the Gran Canaria Island Council, and the Department of Education, Vocational Training, Physical Activity and Sports of the Government of the Canary Islands to fostering STEAM skills and career aspirations, promoting educational innovation, and enhancing understanding of the marine environment as a strategic asset for the future development of the Canary Islands.
