Young scientists, engineers, experimenters and innovators come together for the Eastland Network Science and Technology Fair this weekend.
Going strong for over 40 years in Gisborne, the fair has grown to become one of the largest in New Zealand for the size of our region, as it supports and promotes students’ interest in science and technology.
Co-ordinator Mihi Hannah is thrilled at the level of entries.
“While we won’t know exactly how many entries there are until Friday, we’ve been getting great feedback from schools.
“It’s exciting to think of so many students across our region exploring and experimenting with the world around them.”
Eastland Network general manager Brent Stewart looks forward to seeing what students have come up with.
“The Science and Technology Fair stimulates big ideas and produces interesting experiments, year after year.
“It provides a great starting point for students to build their future in science, technology, engineering and maths.
“This weekend will be a celebration of their hard work, smart-thinking and boundless imaginations.”
Many previous fair entrants have gone on to national recognition, including Heidi Haringa and Maia Ihimaera who attracted national attention with their research findings.
Both were awarded Realise the Dream scholarships and other participants have gone on to complete science and technology degrees.
With more than $2000 in prizes up for grabs and highly coveted trophies and certificates to be won, the fair provides high levels of motivation for both schools and students.
Special prizes include The Most Original Concept in Technology sponsored by Electric Village, The Innovative Thinking Award sponsored by The Mind Lab by Unitec, the IPENZ Engineers New Zealand Cup, and the Eastland Network Best in Fair Cup.
A new website has been launched with a focus on getting the message out to schools across the region.
It can be viewed at www.mysciencefair.co.nz.
“On behalf of the committee, teachers, students and parents involved in the fair, we thank everyone who has supported us and provided sponsorship,” says Ms Hannah.
The fair opens on Friday. It is open to the public Saturday to Monday from 9am to 3pm at the Showgrounds Events Centre. Entry is free.
Prize-giving will be at 5.30pm on August 28 at Gisborne Boy’s High School.
Story: The Gisborne Herald