St. Maarten Students Head to Robotics Challenge in St. Kitts

When Jacob Boxshall and Akash Pillai stepped up for their robotics training sessions, they didn't just learn to code. They earned the chance to represent their entire island at St. Kitts' inaugural Super Regional Robotics Challenge this month.

Science Week 2026 transformed St. Maarten into a hub of curiosity and discovery. The weeklong celebration brought together students, teachers, and community leaders to explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics in action.

The festivities kicked off with words that reminded everyone why this work matters. Dr. Rolinda Carter, president of the St. Maarten Science Fair Foundation, challenged attendees to move beyond creative ideas and focus on solutions that improve community wellbeing.

Minister of Education Melissa Gumbs captured something beautiful about childhood curiosity. "The moment a child asks 'why,' that is the moment science begins," she said, reminding everyone that kids are natural scientists whose questions deserve nurturing.

Sixty-one students from six schools didn't just read about science in textbooks. They visited seven STEAM-related businesses across the island, touching real equipment and seeing how classroom lessons translate into careers that shape their community.

The week's centerpiece, the National Science Fair, showcased student projects from five schools. Visitors traveled from St. Eustatius, Anguilla, St. Martin, and the United States to see what young minds created, turning the local event into a regional attraction.

Meanwhile, five schools nominated students passionate about robotics for intensive training. Students met every two weeks to master coding and engineering skills, preparing for the chance to compete beyond their shores.

After peer nominations, coach evaluations, and online assessments, two winners emerged. Jacob Boxshall from Learning Unlimited and Akash Pillai from St. Maarten Academy will represent their island alongside coaches Julian Mason and Conlan King from March 16 to 20.

The Ripple Effect

This first robotics team creates a path for future students to follow. When Jacob and Akash compete in St. Kitts, they're not just solving challenges, they're proving that small island communities can stand shoulder to shoulder with anyone in innovation and technical skill.

The Bureau of Telecommunications and Post St. Maarten sponsored the team's journey, investing in young people who will return home with new skills and connections. Two alternates, Edom Richardson and Dominic Peters from St. Maarten Academy, stand ready and trained for future opportunities.

Dr. Carter will travel with the delegation to strengthen regional partnerships and establish the Foundation's presence at this inaugural event. Her presence signals that St. Maarten sees robotics and STEAM education as long-term commitments, not one-time experiments.

The award ceremony takes place March 21 at Simpson Bay Resort's Convention Center, celebrating every student who asked "why" and followed that question toward an answer.